It is a little slow in the construction of new and existing homes same with commercial projects. Still with construction in the mist of lagging,the city of los angeles has it.s offices with a smaller personal staff of inspectors and plan checkers. When going in for new permits time yourself for a little more wait time because of the staff programs of less hours mandated by the city for it's employee.

This to my experience is working well considering some days the offices are becoming crowed with contractors and architects and engineers trying to get their projects permitted. And if you are a owner trying to get a owner building permit , good luck. The staff of self help to them has been almost scrapped and suggest to get a profession to help you with your project because you most likely will be there all day. While waiting myself i am tempted to help some of these people, yet I myself don't want to be there all day with someone thinking they are saving money by not using a licensed contractor.

Time is money, just ask the city ?

                                                                                                                        Richard