Resort-Style Remodeling in Malibu
Every lot is in the coastal zone, so geology and drainage studies start with the permit.
Building Here
Planned Around Septic, Salt and Slope
Septic capacity usually sets the ceiling long before design does. The wastewater system determines how many bedrooms an addition can add and where a pool, its equipment and backwash line are allowed to sit. Because every parcel sits in the coastal zone, we sequence geology, biology and drainage work alongside the coastal permit application rather than after it.
On blufftop and canyon sites we also budget for long haul distances and wind-exposed material choices.
Everything from tight beachfront strips between the highway and the sand to multi-acre canyon and ridge parcels with steep buildable pads and long private driveways.
The team that plans your Malibu project is the team that builds it.
Part of our service area in Los Angeles County.
Local Conditions
The Ground Rules in Malibu
Permits in Malibu
City of Malibu Building Safety Division (Community Development Department)
The city runs its own Building Safety Division and issues its own building and grading permits. The entire city lies within the coastal zone, and because the Local Coastal Program was certified in 2002 the city itself issues coastal development permits under its Land Use Plan and Local Implementation Plan, including review against the ESHA overlay.
Onsite wastewater treatment systems are permitted through the Community Development Department's Wastewater Management and Environmental Health staff, and installing a new system requires its own coastal development permit. Processing depends heavily on required geotechnical, biological and wastewater studies, so schedules vary considerably from parcel to parcel.
Permit details checked September 2026 against City of Malibu. Rules change, so we confirm them again for your parcel.
What We Plan For
- Onsite wastewater capacity analysis
- Coastal development permit submittal support
- Geotechnical and shoring coordination
Nearly every property runs on an onsite wastewater system rather than a sewer, and its rated capacity limits added bedrooms and constrains where a pool, equipment pad and backwash line can sit.
Blufftop and canyon parcels carry documented landslide and erosion history, so geotechnical setbacks and shoring design are settled before any pool or deck layout is finalized.
Sustained onshore wind and salt spray degrade untreated metal, cabinetry and fabric fast, which changes material selection for outdoor kitchens, pergolas and pool equipment.
Long approaches along winding canyon roads and the highway make concrete pours, crane days and soil export significantly more expensive to stage than comparable flatland work.
Neighborhoods We Serve
- Point Dume
- Malibu Colony
- Serra Retreat
- Big Rock
- Malibu Park
- Trancas Canyon
Services
What We Build in Malibu
Each page covers permits, costs and the build process in Malibu.
Pool & Spa Remodeling in Malibu
Build a new pool and spa, or give yours fresh tile and plaster.
Backyard & Outdoor Living in Malibu
We build patios, outdoor kitchens and fire pits for long evenings outside.
ADUs & Additions in Malibu
Convert the garage, build a backyard ADU or add a second story.
Kitchen, Bath & Interior Remodeling in Malibu
We remodel kitchens, baths and whole homes around the way you live.
Plans, Permits & Design in Malibu
From first sketch to permit in hand, we handle the drawings and the city.
Also Available in Malibu
Before You Build
Malibu Remodeling Guides
Costs, planning and design ideas for Malibu homes.
Malibu Backyard Remodel Cost: The Coastal Premium
A Malibu backyard remodel runs $90,000 to $300,000. Here is how that splits across hardscape, shade, pool work and soft costs, and why coastal rules add 15 to 30 percent.
Read guideOutdoor Living in Malibu: Coastal Design Inspiration
Malibu's coastal setting demands special considerations for outdoor living. Explore design ideas that embrace ocean views while withstanding salt air and marine conditions.
Read guideWhole-Home Remodel Sequencing: What to Do First
A whole-home remodel done in the wrong order costs 15 to 25 percent more. Here is the correct sequence, from structural and roof through to paint, and why each stage has to precede the next.
Read guideIndoor-Outdoor Living Conversions in Southern California
A 16-foot multi-slide door runs $18,000 to $45,000 installed. Here is how the full indoor-outdoor conversion works, from structural header to flush threshold to covered patio tie-in.
Read guideStart Your Project
Plan Your Malibu Project
Tell us about your home and what you want from it. We call you back within one business day.
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