Compton, CA Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Adopted code
- 2019 California Building Code
- Permit-exempt shed size
- Up to 120 sq ft, 12 ft tall
- Permit-exempt fence height
- 5 ft masonry / 6 ft wood
- Permit expires
- Not started within 365 days
- Permit voids
- Work stopped 180+ days
- Extension available
- Up to 180 days, written justification
Summary
Compton enforces the 2019 California Building Code and requires a permit for nearly all construction. Municipal Code § 15-4.2 lists the narrow categories of work exempt from a permit, from small tool sheds under 120 square feet to short retaining walls, meaning everything else needs Building and Safety Department review before work starts.
105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from 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 or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following: a. Building: 1. One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet (11 m2) and maximum height of 12 feet.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4952997; v15 updated 2026-07-14; through 07-14-2026).
Full Breakdown
1, added by Ordinance No. 2339 on October 26, 2021. 2 to define what work doesn't need a permit: one-story detached accessory structures like tool sheds and playhouses up to 120 square feet and 12 feet tall; masonry fences under five feet or wood fences under six feet; retaining walls up to four feet unless holding back a surcharge or hazardous liquids; water tanks up to 5,000 gallons; sidewalks and driveways no more than 30 inches above grade; finish work such as painting, tiling, and cabinetry; prefabricated above-ground pools under 18 inches deep and 5,000 gallons; agricultural shade structures; playground equipment up to eight feet for one- and two-family homes; and window awnings projecting no more than 54 inches.
Everything outside those specific categories, including additions, new structures, and most electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work beyond minor repairs, requires a permit. 5 on permit expiration: a permit becomes invalid if the authorized work doesn't start within 365 days of issuance, or if work is suspended or abandoned for 180 days after it begins. The Building Official may grant one or more extensions of up to 180 days each, but only on a written request that demonstrates justifiable cause.
Violations & Fines
Section 105.2 states plainly that an exemption from the permit requirement 'shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation' of the Building Code or any other city law or ordinance. So work that falls outside the listed exemptions, or that violates zoning, setback, or safety standards even while permit-exempt, remains enforceable as an unpermitted or noncompliant construction violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build a shed in Compton?
How long is a Compton building permit good for?
What construction code does Compton use?
Can I skip a permit for a small fence?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Compton
California rules heatmap·Compare Compton to another location·View the California building safety overview
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How other cities in Los Angeles County handle building permits.