Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a custom pool cost in Los Angeles?
A custom gunite pool in Los Angeles typically ranges from $80,000 to $200,000+ depending on size, shape, finish, and features. A standard 15×30 pool with plaster finish and basic equipment starts around $80,000–$100,000. Adding a spa, custom water features, vanishing edge, or premium finish (pebble, glass tile) increases the cost. Permit fees are additional. We provide detailed, itemized bids, no surprise change orders for work included in scope.
How long does a pool permit take in Los Angeles?
Pool permit timelines in LA vary by jurisdiction: LA City typically takes 4–8 weeks; LA County unincorporated areas run 6–12 weeks; cities like Pasadena, Burbank, Glendale often process in 3–5 weeks. We submit complete permit drawings to minimize back-and-forth. Total project timeline from signed contract to water-in-pool is typically 4–7 months.
Do I need a permit for a patio or outdoor kitchen?
It depends on scope. In most LA jurisdictions: uncovered paver or concrete patios generally don’t require a permit if no structural work is involved. Covered patio structures (pergolas, solid roofs) require a permit. Outdoor kitchens with permanent gas connections require a plumbing/gas permit. Fixed gas fire features require a permit. We pull all required permits as part of our standard process.
What is your service area?
We serve the Greater Los Angeles area including Los Angeles City, Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Santa Monica, Pasadena, Arcadia, Burbank, Glendale, Studio City, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Woodland Hills, Calabasas, and surrounding communities. Call us at (818) 232-1964 to confirm availability in your area.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. Line of Art Construction holds CSLB License No. 1085510 A (Class A General Engineering Contractor), covering pools, hardscape, grading, and structural work. We carry general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Verify our license at cslb.ca.gov. All subcontractors are independently licensed and insured.
How long does a paver driveway or patio take?
A typical paver patio or driveway installation takes 3–7 business days for installation, depending on size and complexity. Demo and haul-off of existing concrete: 1 day. Base prep: 1–2 days. Paver setting: 1–3 days. Sand and seal: 1 day. We provide a project schedule at the start of every job.
Do you do artificial turf installation?
Yes. We install artificial turf and synthetic grass for backyards, front yards, and play areas throughout Los Angeles. LA DWP offers a turf removal rebate, we document square footage removal for your rebate application. We source commercial-grade turf with realistic blade profiles, proper drainage backing, and UV-stabilized fibers rated for LA sun exposure.
What outdoor kitchen appliances do you work with?
We build outdoor kitchens around most major brands including Lynx, DCS, Fire Magic, Coyote, Bull, Napoleon, and Weber Summit grills, plus pizza ovens, refrigeration, sinks, ice makers, and beverage centers. We can integrate appliances you’ve already purchased or source and install them as part of the project.
Can you match existing materials in my backyard?
Usually yes. For travertine, concrete pavers, and most natural stone, we can source matching material from the same quarry regions or manufacturers. For discontinued products, we present the closest available match for your approval before ordering. Color variation in concrete flatwork over time is normal and expected.
How do I get a free estimate?
Call us at (818) 232-1964 or fill out the contact form on our website. We’ll schedule a site visit and provide a detailed written estimate within a few business days. There is no charge for estimates on residential projects in our service area.
How much does a landscape remodel usually cost?
In Los Angeles, a front yard refresh with new planting, irrigation, and a walkway typically runs $15,000 to $40,000. A full backyard remodel with hardscape, planting, and lighting usually lands between $50,000 and $150,000, and projects that add a pool, outdoor kitchen, or major structures go up from there. Every estimate we provide is itemized by element, so you can see exactly where the budget goes and phase the work if needed.
Do we need a permit for a retaining wall?
In most LA jurisdictions, retaining walls over 4 feet tall (measured from the bottom of the footing) require a permit and engineering. Shorter walls are usually exempt unless they support a slope, a structure, or a driveway above them. We assess this at the site visit and pull any required permits and engineering as part of the job.
Do we need a permit for a driveway?
Replacing a driveway in its existing footprint generally does not require a building permit. However, a new or widened curb cut, apron work, or anything in the parkway requires a public works permit from the city. If your project touches the street, we prepare the drawings, pull the permit, and build to city spec including inspections.
Do we need a permit for a deck?
Decks more than 30 inches above grade require a permit in California, and attached decks or anything structural typically does as well. Low platform decks often qualify for exemption. Either way, we design to code, handle the permit process when one is required, and schedule all inspections.
Will you work with my HOA?
Yes. We regularly prepare HOA submittal packages, including site plans, material samples, color selections, and 3D renderings, and we respond to architectural review committee questions on your behalf. Getting HOA approval before construction protects your timeline and your deposit.
Do you offer a warranty?
Yes. All of our work carries a written workmanship warranty, and the materials we install carry their manufacturer warranties on top of that. Interlocking paver systems from manufacturers like Belgard include lifetime product warranties. Warranty terms are spelled out in your contract before work begins.
How does a 3D design help our project?
A 3D design lets you walk through your finished yard on screen before construction starts. Every decision about layout, materials, and colors happens where changes cost nothing, instead of on site where they cost thousands. The approved model converts directly into permit drawings and construction documents, and if you build with us the design fee is credited toward construction. Learn more on our 3D Design page.