Los Angeles County, CA Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)
Shed permit rules in Los Angeles County, CA, also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations, set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Key Facts
- Max floor area (permit-free)
- 120 square feet
- Max height (permit-free)
- 12 feet
- Max roof projection (permit-free)
- 24 inches
- Structure type
- One-story detached only
- Penalty for unpermitted work
- Up to $1,000 fine or 6 months imprisonment per day
Summary
In unincorporated Los Angeles County, a one-story detached storage shed up to 120 square feet and 12 feet tall does not require a building permit.
106.3 Work Exempted. A building permit shall not be required for the following: 1. One-story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, shade structures, pump houses, and similar uses, provided the gross floor area does not exceed 120 square feet (11.15 m2), the height does not exceed 12 feet (3.69 m), and the maximum roof projection does not exceed 24 inches (610 mm). [...] Exemption from the permit requirements of this Code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this Code, other laws, ordinances, or regulations, or required approvals from other County Departments and State and federal agencies.
Full Breakdown
Los Angeles County Building Code Section 106.3 exempts one-story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, shade structures, pump houses, and similar uses from permit requirements, provided the gross floor area does not exceed 120 square feet, the height does not exceed 12 feet, and the maximum roof projection does not exceed 24 inches. Structures that exceed any of these thresholds require a building permit before construction. The exemption from permit requirements does not authorize work that violates other provisions of the Building Code or Title 22 zoning requirements. Larger accessory structures (under 1,500 sq ft) incidental to an active grading or building permit are separately exempt (Section 106.3, item 12), but must be removed upon permit expiration.
Violations & Fines
Building without a required permit is a misdemeanor under Section 103.3 of Title 26, punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to six months, or both. Each day of violation is a separate offense. The Building Official may also charge investigation fees and record a Notice of Violation with the County Recorder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build a 10x10 storage shed in my backyard?
What if my shed is 140 square feet?
Does the permit exemption mean I can put the shed anywhere on my lot?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles County
How Los Angeles County compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·California rules heatmap·Compare Los Angeles County to another location·View the California accessory structures overview
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