LADBS Noncompliant Building Order
Last updated: August 27, 2026
Why is the Order issued?
LADBS issues Orders to Comply to owners of wood-frame buildings with soft, weak, or open-front walls at the ground story. Ordinance 183893 requires these buildings to be seismically retrofitted. The Order notifies the owner of the compliance requirement and deadline.
| Order component | Description |
|---|---|
| Building identification | Address and soft-story classification |
| Ordinance citation | Ordinance 183893 requirements |
| Compliance deadline | Date by which retrofit must be completed |
| Required actions | Submit proof/plans, obtain permit, complete construction |
| Enforcement information | Contact LADBS for enforcement procedures |
What are the compliance timelines?
Per dbs.lacity.gov, the property owner must comply with the ordinance within the following time limit from the receipt of the Order to Comply: 2 years: Submit proof of previous retrofit, or plans to retrofit or demolish; 3.5 years: Obtain permit to start construction or demolition; 7 years: Complete construction. Contact LADBS for enforcement information.
| Deadline from receipt of Order to Comply | Requirement |
|---|---|
| 2 years | Submit proof of previous retrofit, or plans to retrofit or demolish |
| 3.5 years | Obtain permit to start construction or demolition |
| 7 years | Complete construction |
Source: DBS Soft Story Retrofit Program
Frequently asked questions
What is an LADBS noncompliant building Order?
An LADBS Order to Comply is issued to owners of soft-story buildings that do not meet Ordinance 183893 seismic retrofit requirements. The Order mandates retrofit completion by a specified deadline. Contact LADBS for information on enforcement procedures.
How is the Order dismissed?
Per Ordinance 183893, the Order is dismissed when the Department files a County Recorder certificate (§91.9306.6) and the design professional (a California civil or structural engineer or architect per §91.9305.1) puts a statement on the approved plans (§91.9310.2).