AM30 13 b – Authorization of Agent to Act on Property Owners Behalf

Jurisdiction: Country: United States | Province or State: California | County: Los Angeles

What is an AM30 13 b – Authorization of Agent to Act on Property Owners Behalf?

The AM30 13 b is a County of Los Angeles Building and Safety form. It allows you, as the property owner, to authorize someone else to act for you. Your agent can handle Building and Safety tasks related to your property. This can include submitting applications, responding to plan check comments, paying fees, and picking up permits. It can also cover scheduling inspections and receiving official notices. The authority is limited to what you grant in the form. You keep ultimate responsibility as the owner.

You typically use this form when you cannot appear in person or manage day-to-day permit work. Many owners rely on professionals for this. Common agents include architects, engineers, contractors, expediters, property managers, and attorneys. Tenants may also be agents if you consent in writing. The form documents your consent in a way staff can rely on.

You would need this form to keep your project moving without delays. Plan check and permitting take multiple steps. Staff must know who can sign, pick up, or modify applications. Without a clear written authority, staff may refuse to act on requests. This form gives staff confidence to work with your chosen agent. It protects you, your agent, and the County by setting clear lines.

Typical usage scenarios include home remodels, additions, and accessory dwelling units. It is also used for commercial tenant improvements, change of occupancy, and equipment permits. Owners use it for solar or EV charger permits, grading and drainage approvals, or demolition permits. It is common for septic system permits, retaining walls, and hillside projects. Property managers use it for repeated permits across a portfolio. Architects use it to shepherd plan check and coordinate corrections. Contractors use it to obtain permits and schedule inspections. Expediters use it to manage submittals and pickups. If you are out of town or own property through an entity, you will likely use this form.

In short, the AM30 13 b is the County’s way of confirming who speaks for you on Building and Safety matters. It makes your project workflow smoother and reduces counter friction. It is recognized by staff across plan check, permitting, and inspection.

When Would You Use an AM30 13 b – Authorization of Agent to Act on Property Owners Behalf?

You use this form any time a third party needs to act for you in Los Angeles County Building and Safety processes. If you own the property but want your architect to submit plans, the form is needed. If your contractor will pull the permit, pay fees, and pick up the job card, the form is needed. If a permit expediter will handle resubmittals and corrections, the form is needed. County staff will ask for it before discussing details or issuing permits to someone other than you.

Owners use the form at the start of the plan check to avoid stops later. If your project is already in plan check, you can add an agent midstream. This is common when an owner realizes corrections are piling up. A well-prepared agent can respond faster. If your current agent changes, you can revoke the old form and submit a new one.

If you are a landlord and your tenant will build out the space, you use this form to consent. Your tenant may need to submit plans, request inspections, and receive correction notices. Staff will not accept a tenant’s requests without the owner’s consent. The form provides that consent. Many commercial leases require landlord oversight of permit activity. The form helps align that oversight with County procedures.

Property managers use the form to handle routine maintenance permits. Examples include water heater replacements, reroofing, electrical upgrades, or minor structural repairs. Managers also use it to schedule and conduct inspections. For multi-building sites, the form can be project-specific or site-wide, depending on your limits.

If you own through an LLC, trust, corporation, or estate, you are more likely to use the form. Entity owners often delegate to design professionals or contractors. The form avoids repeated requests to confirm signatory authority. It also helps when a different team member needs to pick up revised plans or permits.

If you live outside Los Angeles County or out of state, this form is critical. You may not be able to appear at the counter with ID. The form, often with notarization, satisfies staff that your agent is authorized. If you live abroad, planning ahead avoids courier delays at permit issuance.

You would also use the form after emergencies. If your property needs urgent structural repair after a fire, wind event, or slide, your contractor can act quickly as your agent. The form ensures the County can accept emergency applications and issue permits without waiting for you to appear.

Finally, you use the form when you want your agent to receive all notices. Plan check timeframes are tight. Corrections and fee notices go to the designated recipient. If you want your agent to get those directly, you must authorize it. This helps prevent missed deadlines and expired applications.

Legal Characteristics of the AM30 13 b – Authorization of Agent to Act on Property Owners Behalf

The AM30 13 b is a written authorization that creates actual authority. You, as the owner, grant an agent the power to act in specific County processes. It is legally binding because it is your signed directive. County staff rely on it to accept filings, issue permits, and release records to your agent. It functions like a limited power of agency for administrative tasks. It does not transfer property ownership and does not replace required contractor licensing.

Enforceability rests on clear identification of the parties, the property, and the scope. The form names the record owner and the agent. It identifies the site by address and usually the Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN). It lists what the agent can do and any limits. It sets an effective date and may include an expiration date. Your signature confirms consent. If the owner is an entity, the signer must have authority to bind the entity. Staff may require proof of that authority.

The County may require original or notarized signatures in some cases. Notarization strengthens the form, especially for remote owners. If you sign in person at a County counter with a valid ID, notarization may not be needed. If you cannot appear, a notarized signature helps staff verify your identity. For trust-owned property, the trustee signs and may provide a certification of trust. For corporations or LLCs, staff may ask for a resolution or operating agreement excerpt that shows signer authority.

The authorization is revocable. You can revoke it by delivering a written notice to the County. You can also submit a new form that supersedes the prior one. Revocation should be clear and in writing. It takes effect when received by the County. Your agent’s actions before revocation remain valid if done within the granted scope.

The agent’s authority is limited to County Building and Safety matters you specify. It does not authorize the agent to enter into construction contracts for you. It does not waive code requirements. It does not excuse licensed professionals from stamping plans where required. You remain responsible for compliance with codes and conditions. You remain responsible for fees, penalties, and compliance orders tied to your property.

If there are multiple record owners, staff may require signatures from all owners. This prevents disputes and limits unauthorized filings. If your property is community property, joint tenancy, or held by an HOA, confirm signing requirements early. If the owner of record differs from the applicant, reconcile that difference with proper proof.

Clarity ensures smooth processing. List the scope precisely. Tie the authorization to a project number if one exists. Set an expiration that matches your project timeline. Include contact details for both you and your agent. This reduces back-and-forth and supports enforceability.

How to Fill Out an AM30 13 b – Authorization of Agent to Act on Property Owners Behalf

Follow these steps to complete the form accurately. Prepare your supporting documents before you start. Use ink if you fill it by hand. Write legibly. Keep a copy for your records.

1) Identify the property clearly.

• Enter the site address, including unit or suite number.
• Add the city and ZIP code. Confirm the address matches County records.
• Include the Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN) if you have it. Staff use it to confirm ownership.
• If the project spans multiple parcels, list each APN and address. Attach an additional sheet if needed.

2) List the owner of record exactly as titled.

• Use the legal name that appears on the deed or tax bill.
• If a trust owns the property, write the trust name and the trustee’s name.
• If an entity owns it, write the full legal entity name. Include the state of formation if requested.
• Provide the owner’s mailing address, phone, and email. Notices may go there if you do not designate your agent for notices.

3) Describe the project or purpose.

• State the permit type, such as “residential addition” or “commercial TI.”
• Include any known application or plan check numbers. This ties your authorization to the right file.
• Note whether the authorization is project-specific or covers all Building and Safety matters for this property.

4) Identify your agent precisely.

• Write the agent’s full name and company name, if any.
• Include mailing address, phone, and email. This is where plan check comments can be sent.
• If the agent is a licensed contractor, include the license number. If the agent is an architect or engineer, include their license number. This helps staff verify credentials, but it is not mandatory for all agents.
• If a tenant is your agent, identify the suite and attach your consent letter or lease pages that show control of the space.

5) Define the scope of authority.

• Check or list each action you authorize. Typical actions include:
• Submit applications and plans.
• Respond to plan check corrections.
• Pay fees and deposits.
• Pick up permits, job cards, and approved plans.
• Request and schedule inspections.
• Receive and respond to notices.
• Request refunds or withdraw applications.
• Limit the authority if you wish. You can restrict payment authority, limit to a single permit, or exclude change orders.
• If you want the agent to receive all notices directly, state that clearly. Add the agent’s email for electronic communication.

6) Set the effective date and expiration.

• Enter the date the authorization becomes effective.
• Add an expiration date that matches your expected permit timeline. Many owners choose six to twelve months.
• You can state “until completion of project number [X]” for a clear endpoint. Staff prefer a date certain when possible.

7) Address fee responsibility and refunds.

• State who will pay fees at submittal and issuance. This avoids delay at the counter.
• If refunds arise, designate who should receive them. Some owners prefer that refunds go only to the owner.

8) Add special instructions if needed.

• If you require owner approval before major revisions, say so.
• If multiple agents will act, list each and divide roles. For example, the architect handles plan check; the contractor handles issuance and inspections.
• If you require dual signatures for withdrawals, write that condition.

9) Sign and date as the owner.

• Sign your name. Print your name below the signature. Add your title if signing for an entity or trust.
• Date the signature. Use the same date across all signature lines.
• If there are multiple owners, each owner should sign. If an owner cannot sign, provide a power of attorney or proper evidence of authority.
• If you are signing for an entity, confirm your capacity. Examples include a Manager for an LLC or a President for a corporation. Attach a resolution or operating agreement page if asked.

10) Complete the notary acknowledgment if required.

• If you cannot appear in person at a County office, notarize your signature. This helps staff verify identity.
• Use an acknowledgment that matches your signing location. Ensure names and titles match the form.
• Keep the notary seal clear and legible. Avoid overlapping seals and signatures.

11) Have the agent accept the authorization if the form includes that line.

• Some versions include an agent acceptance. The agent signs to confirm they agree to act as authorized. This helps avoid disputes later.

12) Attach supporting documents.

• Include a copy of your government-issued ID if requested.
• For entity owners, attach proof of signing authority. For example, a corporate resolution, statement of information, or operating agreement excerpt.
• For trust owners, attach a certification of trust showing trustee powers.
• For estates or guardianships, attach court letters showing authority.
• For tenants acting as agents, include a landlord consent letter or lease pages showing authority to alter the premises.

13) Review for consistency and completeness.

• Names should match across deed, form, and IDs.
• The property description should match the application and plans.
• The scope should match your project needs. Check that limits are clear.
• Contact details for you and your agent are current. Corrections often come by email.

14) Submit the form with your application or at your next counter visit.

• Attach it to your permit application at intake. If the file already exists, provide the project number on the form and submit it to the staff.
• Bring the original if notarization is required. Keep a scanned copy for quick reference.
• Tell your agent they must present the form or a copy when picking up permits or job cards.

15) Keep the form updated.

• If you change agents, submit a new authorization and notify staff in writing. Ask that the prior form be treated as revoked.
• If the project scope changes, update the form if your permission needs to expand.
• If the form is nearing expiration, renew it before it lapses. An expired authorization can delay issuance or inspections.

Real-world examples help you check your work

• Homeowner with an ADU: You name your architect as the agent for plan check only. You reserve permit issuance to yourself or your contractor. You set a one-year expiration aligned with plan review.

• Commercial landlord with a tenant improvement: You authorize your tenant and their architect. The tenant can submit and respond to corrections. The architect can sign application forms. You reserve fee refunds to the owner only.

• HOA common area project: The HOA acts as owner. The board president signs with minutes authorizing the project. The HOA’s engineer is the agent for grading and drainage approvals.

• Trust-owned duplex: The successor trustee signs as owner. The contractor is the agent for permits and inspections. A certification of trust is attached.

• Out-of-state owner: You notarize your signature. You authorize an expediter to submit and pick up all permits. You limit authority to project number BAXX-XXXX.

A careful, complete AM30 13 b reduces counter questions and time lost to verification. It helps staff know who to talk to and who can act. It helps your team move the project through plan check, issuance, and inspections without calling you for every step. Fill it once, fill it right, and keep it current.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

• “Principal” means the property owner who grants authority. On the AM30 13 b, you are the principal. You give another person or company permission to act for you.
• “Agent” or “Authorized Agent” is the person or company you appoint. This could be your architect, contractor, expeditor, or property manager. The form identifies your agent by name and contact details so staff know who can speak and sign for you.
• “Scope of Authority” describes what your agent can and cannot do. On the AM30 13 b, you can limit authority to specific tasks, like submitting applications, pulling permits, or paying fees. If you need your agent to sign only certain documents, say so clearly in the form.
• “Execution” simply means signing the document with all required details. When you execute the AM30 13 b, use your legal name as it appears on title documents. Sign and date in ink. If a notary is required, sign before the notary.
• “Notary Acknowledgment” is the section a notary completes. It confirms the person who signed the form is who they claim to be. If the office requires notarization, your AM30 13 b must include a notary acknowledgment for your signature.
• “Legal Description” and “APN” are property identifiers. The legal description is the formal land description from your deed. The APN is the Assessor’s Parcel Number. On the AM30 13 b, include at least the site address and APN so the authorization ties to the correct parcel.
• “Effective Date” is when your authorization starts. “Expiration Date” is when it ends. If you want your AM30 13 b to apply only during a project phase, add an expiration date. If you leave it open-ended, track it and revoke it when the project is complete.
• “Revocation” means you cancel the authorization. You can revoke an AM30 13 b at any time. To do this, deliver a signed revocation notice to your agent and the office handling your permits. Keep proof of delivery to prevent unauthorized use.
• “Capacity” refers to the owner’s legal role. If the owner is an individual, they sign as an individual. If the owner is a corporation, LLC, trust, or partnership, an authorized officer, manager, trustee, or partner signs. On the AM30 13 b, the signer should list their title, like “Manager,” “President,” or “Trustee.”
• “Third-Party Reliance” means staff can rely on your authorization to interact with your agent. Once your AM30 13 b is accepted, the office can discuss your file with your agent, accept signatures, and process submissions within the scope you set. If you narrow the scope, staff will honor that limit.

FAQs

Do you need to notarize the AM30 13 b?

Check the signature block and any instructions that came with the form. If a notary section appears, you should have your signature notarized. Even when not required, notarization helps offices verify the owner’s identity. It can reduce processing delays and questions.

Do you have to submit the original wet-signed form?

Many offices accept a clear scan. Some processes require an original. If you plan to hand-deliver, bring the wet-signed original. If you plan to upload, keep the original in your records in case staff requests it. When in doubt, prepare both.

Do you need one form per property?

Yes, if your projects are on different parcels. Each AM30 13 b should reference the specific site address and APN. If one project spans multiple APNs, list all covered APNs. Attach an extra sheet if necessary and reference it on the form.

Do you need a separate AM30 13 b for each agent?

Use one agent per form. If you want to authorize more than one agent, complete separate forms or clearly list each agent with their scope. Multiple agents can create confusion. Separate forms help you control who can do what.

Do you have to give broad authority to your agent?

No. Limit the scope to what you need. For example, authorize “submit applications and pick up permits” but not “sign owner affidavits.” If the office receives a request outside your scope, they will refuse it. Narrow terms protect you from unauthorized actions.

Do you need to add an expiration date?

It helps. Set an end date that matches your project timeline. If you omit a date, you should revoke the AM30 13 b when the work is complete. A clear end date reduces the risk of unauthorized activity on future projects.

Do you need corporate documents if the owner is a company?

Provide proof that the signer has authority. Examples include an operating agreement excerpt, a resolution, or a title showing officer status. Attach only what is necessary to confirm the signer’s capacity. Include the signer’s title on the AM30 13 b.

Do you need to file a revocation if you change agents mid-project?

Yes. Issue a written revocation, notify your former agent, and provide the revocation to the office processing your permits. Then submit a new AM30 13 b for the new agent. This prevents confusion and protects your approvals.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the AM30 13 b – Authorization of Agent to Act on Property Owners Behalf

Before signing

• Confirm ownership. Match your name with the most recent deed or title report.
• Identify the property. Gather the site address and APN. Add the legal description if needed.
• Choose your agent. Confirm full legal name, business name, and contact details.
• Define scope. List tasks your agent may perform. Exclude sensitive items if you prefer.
• Set dates. Choose an effective date and a reasonable expiration date.
• Gather authority documents. If you sign for a company, trust, or partnership, prepare proof of capacity.
• Prepare identification. If using a notary, bring valid ID.
• Align with your contract. Ensure your agreement with the agent matches the scope and dates on the form.
• Collect related approvals. If a landlord or HOA must consent, obtain their approval letter.
• Plan recordkeeping. Decide where you will store originals and who will get copies.

During signing

• Use consistent names. Match your name to the deed. Match your agent’s name to their license or entity filings.
• Verify property identifiers. Check the address and APN for typos.
• State scope precisely. Use clear verbs: “submit,” “receive,” “sign,” “pay.” Avoid vague phrases.
• Add effective and expiration dates. Do not leave dates blank.
• Complete the notary block if required. Sign in the notary’s presence. Ensure the notary fills in the date, venue, and ID method.
• Include title and capacity. If signing for an entity, add your title (e.g., “Manager”).
• Initial any attachments. If you attach a scope addendum or APN list, initial each page.
• Avoid cross-outs. If you must correct, use a clean reprint to prevent rejection.
• Keep a scan. Create a legible digital copy as soon as you sign.

After signing

• Distribute copies. Give your agent a copy. Keep the original in a safe place.
• Submit with your application. Include the AM30 13 b when you file permits or related requests.
• Confirm acceptance. Ask the office to note the authorization in the project file.
• Update project contacts. Ensure staff route questions to your agent within the allowed scope.
• Monitor activity. Review the submissions your agent makes. Request copies of key filings.
• Calendar the expiration. Renew or replace the authorization before it lapses.
• Revoke if needed. If you change agents or finish the project, issue a revocation and notify all parties.
• Retain records. Keep the form, any revocation, and related correspondence for your files.

Common Mistakes to Avoid AM30 13 b – Authorization of Agent to Act on Property Owners Behalf

• Using the wrong property information. A single-digit error in the APN or address can derail your submission. Don’t forget to verify the APN against your tax bill or deed. Consequence: delays, misfiled approvals, or rejection.
• Vague or overbroad authority. “Handle everything” sounds easy, but it invites risk. Don’t forget to specify tasks the agent can perform and those they cannot. Consequence: unauthorized signatures or disputes with your agent.
• Missing or improper notarization. Some offices require a notarized owner’s signature. Don’t forget to sign in front of the notary and ensure the notary completes their section. Consequence: refusal to process your documents.
• Mismatched owner capacity. Owners often sign without listing their title for an entity. Don’t forget to add your role (e.g., Manager, Trustee, President) and have backup documentation. Consequence: staff may not accept the form.
• Letting the authorization linger after project completion. Old authorizations can be misused. Don’t forget to revoke the AM30 13 b when your project ends or when you change agents. Consequence: unauthorized filings or confusion on later projects.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form AM30 13 b – Authorization of Agent to Act on Property Owners Behalf

1. File it with your project. Attach the AM30 13 b to your permit or application package. If you are submitting multiple applications, include a copy with each one.
2. Confirm it is on record. Ask staff to confirm the authorization is linked to your property and project file. Note any file number in your records.
3. Align your team. Share the approved scope with your agent, design team, and contractor. Make sure they know what they can sign and what must come back to you.
4. Control sensitive documents. If you limited scope for owner affidavits or financial commitments, handle those yourself. Ask your agent to flag such documents for your signature.
5. Track deadlines. Note the expiration date. If your project will exceed it, prepare a renewal 30 days before it lapses.
6. Manage changes. If you add or replace an agent, revoke the prior authorization in writing. Provide the revocation and the new AM30 13 b to the office and your team.
7. Keep your original safe. Store the wet-signed original with your core property records. Keep a digital copy in your project folder for quick access.
8. Review activity periodically. Request a summary of submissions and approvals from your agent. Confirm that all actions fall within the scope you granted.
9. Close out properly. When the project finishes, revoke any still-active authorization. Send the revocation to your agent and the office. Archive all records.
10. Prepare for future projects. If you expect more work on the same property, create a template scope that fits your needs. Predefine limits and required notifications for your agent.