Community Development

Permit Center Virtual Meeting Service Banner

Need answers to building, fire or planning code questions without the hassle of scheduling in-person appointments?


The Virtual Meeting Service (VMS) connects you directly with experienced professionals who can provide guidance on the following topics from the comfort of your home or office:

  • Building Code
  • Fire Code
  • Electrical Code
  • Plumbing Code
  • Mechanical Code
  • Planning/Zoning


Whether you're a homeowner, contractor or developer, you’ll save time and avoid delays by getting your questions answered quickly through live video and screen sharing. It’s fast, convenient, and designed to keep your project moving forward without the need for an in-person visit to the Permit Center.

Important Considerations

This service is NOT intended to be used for plan check submittals, express and other permit needs, or other counter services offered at the Permit Center (e.g., Business Licensing, Public Works, etc.). For those activities and services, please visit the Permit Center at Long Beach City Hall. To schedule an in-person appointment, visit longbeach.gov/permitcenterappt.

Virtual counter appointments should be treated like in-person appointments. We kindly ask that appropriate attire, language and conduct is used during appointments.


Schedule A Virtual Meeting Appointment

Scheduling a virtual meeting is easy. Simply click the link below, choose a meeting date and time, and enter your contact information (e.g., name, email address and cell phone number). A confirmation text and email will be sent to you including instructions and check-in links.








How to Access Microsoft Teams For Virtual Meeting

For the best results, it is recommended to use a desktop computer or laptop with a reliable internet connection. Desktop computers and laptops can access Teams meetings by using an internet browser like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

View Instructions on How to Join a Microsoft Meeting on a Computer or Laptop


Teams can also be accessed using a mobile phone or tablet. Please note that this will require the installation of the Teams app prior to your virtual meeting appointment. 

View Instructions on How to Join a Microsoft Meeting on Mobile


Please use a single designated device when joining your virtual appointment, switching between multiple devices is not recommended. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. You simply need to forward the meeting link to your guest to participate in the virtual meeting. Any external guest can participate in the virtual meeting to assist, view, and/or discuss your project with city staff. Please note, external guests do not have the ability to open or download files, including electronic PDFs.  

There is a grace period of up to 10 minutes. If you are more than 10 minutes late, you will be required to reschedule the virtual meeting. When possible, please have all your questions prepared in advance of the virtual meeting.   

ADU questions related to the building code can be answered or discussed during a virtual meeting. However, zoning- and planning-related questions will require an in-person visit to the Permit Center at this time. An in-person appointment or visit is required if your ADU project involves multiple services or bureaus. 

For more information about ADUs, visit longbeach.gov/adusb9.

If you only have a hard copy of your plans, we recommend an in-person visit to the Permit Center. Schedule an appointment by visiting longbeach.gov/permits.