What is CrossBeam and what can it do for me?
Quick answer: CrossBeam is an AI plan-check tool for builders. Upload your construction documents and it reviews them against California state code and the specific city's local rules, then hands you a findings report you can fix before you submit — or a corrections response if you already got a comment letter back from the city.
What builders use it for
- Pre-check — run a set of plans through AI review before you submit to the city. You get sheet-by-sheet findings (pass / flag / fail), code citations, and the issues to fix.
- Corrections analysis — upload the corrections letter the city sent back, and CrossBeam drafts your response package item by item.
- Ask AI — ask a city-specific assistant about permit requirements, setbacks, fees, or process questions before you even start a project.
- Partner-city online submittal — for partner cities like Buena Park, submit your permit directly through CrossBeam instead of a city portal.
What kinds of permits
Any permit with a construction document set — not just ADUs. That includes:
- ADUs and JADUs
- Single-family residential (new homes, additions)
- Multi-unit and commercial TI
- Simple permits (EV chargers, solar, reroofs, panel upgrades, water heaters)
- Restaurant TI, childcare facilities, cannabis, and other non-Title-24 types (rolling)
See Review pricing for what each permit type costs.
What it is not
- Not an official plan review. The city still issues the permit. CrossBeam catches problems before you submit so you don't burn a review cycle.
- Not a drafting tool. It reads your plans; it doesn't produce them.
- Not a licensed design professional. Any finding from AI needs to be confirmed by the project's design professional of record before submission.
Related
- Create an account — OAuth (Google / Microsoft) or email
- Run a free pre-check — one free review per account
- Submit through a partner city