LOCATING YOUR LONG BEACH ANCESTORS 
Building Permits

Once you’ve found your ancestor’s address in a city directory or on a census page, you can look at free digitized building permits available from the City of Long Beach Building Permit Archives.

These permits and inspection records may tell you more about the home—who built it, and who owned it originally. Some of the files include rough architectural plans; and, if there were additions, extensions, or renovations to the property, you may even find your ancestor’s signature on the paperwork! 

To access these records go to 

http://citydocs.longbeach.gov/WebLink8/CustomSearch.aspx?SearchName=SearchbyAddress.

RESEARCH TIP: Use Google “Street View” to see if your ancestor’s home is still standing.