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Aliso Viejo, CA

Aliso Viejo, a gem in South Orange County, offers a perfect blend of suburban comfort and vibrant city life. Known for its picturesque scenery, the city is surrounded by rolling hills, lush parks, and stunning coastal views just minutes away. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, which offers scenic hiking and biking trails with breathtaking vistas.

The food scene in Aliso Viejo is diverse and thriving, with popular spots like Urban Plates for fresh, organic meals, Inka Mama’s for flavorful Peruvian cuisine, and Wood Ranch BBQ for hearty American classics. Whether you're craving international flavors or a cozy café experience, there's something for everyone.

Aliso Viejo Town Center serves as the city’s social hub, featuring a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, including a state-of-the-art movie theater and lively community events. The city is also home to excellent schools, safe and welcoming neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community, making it an ideal place for families and professionals alike.

With its balance of natural beauty, modern amenities, and a warm, friendly atmosphere, Aliso Viejo is truly a standout destination in Orange County!

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Permit Application Process in Aliso Viejo

To undertake a construction project in Aliso Viejo, obtaining the appropriate permits is essential to ensure compliance with local regulations and safety standards. Here's a detailed overview of the permit application process and associated fees:

1. Determine Permit Requirements:

Before starting any construction, identify whether your project requires a permit. Typically, permits are necessary for:

  • New buildings

  • Building additions (e.g., bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, garages)

  • Residential improvements (e.g., pools/spas, patios/decks, retaining walls)

  • Interior renovations/remodels (e.g., kitchens, bathrooms, interior walls)

  • Electrical, HVAC, and plumbing system modifications

For a comprehensive list, refer to the Building Permit Information provided by OC Development Services.

2. Prepare Necessary Documentation:

Gather all required documents, which may include:

  • Completed Building & Grading Permit Application

  • Detailed construction plans and specifications

  • Site plans illustrating property boundaries and proposed work

  • Structural calculations, if applicable

  • Energy compliance forms

  • Any additional documents specified by the city

Application forms and guidelines are available on the city's Applications & Handouts page.

3. Submit Your Application:

Submit your completed application and supporting documents to the Aliso Viejo Building Department. While some neighboring cities offer online submissions, it's advisable to contact Aliso Viejo's Building Department directly to confirm their current submission procedures.

4. Plan Review Process:

Once submitted, your application will undergo a plan review to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. This review may involve multiple departments, such as planning, engineering, and fire safety. If revisions are necessary, you'll be notified to make the required changes.

5. Permit Issuance:

After approval, you'll be notified to pay the applicable permit fees. Upon payment, the permit will be issued, authorizing you to commence construction.

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Types of construction projects we handle in Aliso Viejo

  • Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)

  • Addition & Expansion

  • Renovation & Remodeling

  • Garage Transformation

  • Remodeling

  • Fix and Flip

  • Commercial Projects

  • Tenant Improvement

  • 3D Visualization

  • Financing Options

Schedule Inspection in Advance in Aliso Viejo

Scheduling a building inspection in Aliso Viejo is a crucial step to ensure your project complies with local building codes and regulations. Here's a detailed guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Ensure Permit Issuance:

Before scheduling an inspection, confirm that your building permit has been officially issued. Inspections cannot be arranged without an active permit.

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2. Verify Contact Information:

Make sure you are listed as a contact on the permit record. If you're not, you may be unable to schedule an inspection.

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3. Sequence of Inspections:

Adhere to the required sequence of inspections. Skipping necessary inspections can prevent you from scheduling subsequent ones.

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4. Scheduling Inspections:

Inspections are conducted Monday through Friday, including closed Fridays, with the following time slots:

  • AM Schedule: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

  • PM Schedule: 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM

To schedule an inspection, access the Citizen Self Service (CSS) Portal and submit your request. Ensure that your request is submitted before 4:00 PM on a business day to secure an inspection for the next business day.

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5. Daily Inspection Assignments:

Inspection assignments are posted daily by 8:00 AM on the CSS Portal. You can check the schedule to see which inspector has been assigned to your project and the estimated time of their visit.

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6. Contacting Your Inspector:

If you need to discuss specifics about your inspection, contact information for the inspections team is available on the City of Aliso Viejo's official website.

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7. Inspection History and Results:

To review past inspections and their outcomes, log into the CSS Portal and search for your permit number or project address. The project's workflow will provide detailed information on its status.

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8. Final Inspection Clearances:

Before scheduling a final inspection, ensure you have obtained clearances from relevant city departments and external agencies, such as:

  • City Departments:

    • Planning Department: 949-425-2525

    • Public Works Department: 949-425-2530

    • Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED): 949-425-2560

  • External Agencies:

    • Orange County Fire Authority: 714-573-6100

    • Orange County Health Department: 714-433-6000

    • Moulton Niguel Water District: 949-831-2500

Obtaining these clearances is essential to avoid delays in your project's completion.

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By following these steps and maintaining clear communication with the Aliso Viejo Building Department, you can ensure a smooth inspection process for your construction project.

Best time to build in Irvine, CA

Now is the perfect time to build an ADU in Aliso Viejo, thanks to a combination of favorable regulations, financial incentives, and increasing housing demand. California has passed multiple laws in recent years that make it easier to construct ADUs by streamlining the approval process, reducing fees, and overriding restrictive local zoning laws. Homeowners can now build faster and with fewer obstacles, allowing them to take full advantage of the opportunity. Beyond legal ease, adding an ADU is one of the best ways to increase property value and generate passive income. Aliso Viejo’s desirable location, strong job market, and excellent schools make it an attractive place for renters, ensuring a high return on investment. With Orange County rental prices continuing to rise, an ADU can provide a steady source of income while addressing the region’s growing housing shortage.

Financially, it has never been more accessible to fund an ADU project. Home equity loans, cash-out refinancing, and government-backed ADU financing programs make it possible for homeowners to start construction with little upfront cost. Additionally, lower interest rates and energy-efficient building incentives allow for reduced long-term expenses, making ADUs even more cost-effective. Sustainability incentives, including rebates for solar panel installations and water-efficient landscaping, further enhance the affordability and appeal of building an ADU.

Beyond financial benefits, ADUs offer long-term flexibility. They can serve as housing for aging parents, a private space for adult children, or even a home office for remote work. Multi-generational living is becoming more common, and an ADU provides an independent yet close living arrangement for families. With construction costs steadily rising and potential future policy changes, homeowners who act now can lock in current rates, avoid future restrictions, and maximize the benefits of their investment. Whether for rental income, increased home value, or personal use, building an ADU in Aliso Viejo today is a smart, future-proof decision.

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