Shed Rules: Altadena vs Pasadena
How do shed rules rules compare between Altadena, CA and Pasadena, CA?
Altadena has fewer restrictions than Pasadena.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Sheds 120 sq ft or smaller and ≤12 ft tall typically don't need a building permit in Altadena, but they still must comply with Altadena CSD setbacks. Anything larger needs a permit.
View full Altadena rules →Pasadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Pasadena allows sheds under 120 square feet without a building permit. Larger sheds require permits. All sheds must comply with zoning setbacks and height limits.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| No-Permit Threshold | ≤120 sq ft | - |
| Authority | LA County Title 26 + CBC §105.2 | - |
| Min Setbacks (R-1) | 5 ft side, 5 ft rear | - |
| Lot Coverage | 0.25 × lot + 1,000 sf (CSD 22.306.070.A.4) | - |
| Permit Threshold | - | Under 120 sq ft, no building permit |
| Setbacks | - | Typically 5 ft from property lines |
| Front Yard | - | Sheds not permitted |
| Historic Districts | - | Design review may apply |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in Altadena?
Not if it is 120 sq ft or smaller and has no electrical/plumbing. Larger sheds require a building permit from LA County Building & Safety.
Pasadena FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in Pasadena?
Sheds under 120 square feet do not need a building permit but must meet zoning setback requirements.
How close can a shed be to the property line?
Typically 5 feet from side and rear property lines. Check your zone's specific setback requirements.
Compare other topics
See how Altadena and Pasadena compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool