Did I mention I teach the California Mechanic Continuing education class and am available to do so for a flat fee at your companies location?

§3041. Emergency and Signal Devices.
(c) Operation of Elevators Under Fire or Other Emergency Conditions.

(1) Elevators with automatic operation and automatic power operated hoistway doors shall conform to the following:

Exception: New elevators having a travel of not more than 25 ft. (7.62m) and elevators existing at the time of adoption of this order with a travel of not more than 50 ft. (15.24m).

That being Said, if you have a group 2 elevator that you are making any sort of alteration to, you are directed to the following section.

§3000. Application.
(h) Alterations, Repairs, Replacements, and Maintenance of Devices.
(2) Alterations made after May 1, 2008 on Group II and Group III devices listed in section 3000(c) shall comply with the applicable provisions of section 3141.2 in Group IV.

So, despite the "Myths" about controller replacement, they are "Alterations" Check with the Code information desk at the City of Los Angeles to see if they would require a permit.

Respectfully,

Robert L Krieger Jr.