Shed Rules: Altadena vs Santa Monica
How do shed rules rules compare between Altadena, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Altadena has fewer restrictions than Santa Monica.
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 →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica regulates accessory buildings under SMMC §9.21.020. Sheds and similar structures in residential zones must comply with setback and height requirements. Sheds may not contain a kitchen unless approved as an ADU.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| 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) | - |
| Code Section | - | SMMC §9.21.020 |
| Kitchen Restriction | - | Not allowed (ADU exception) |
| Permit Exempt | - | Walls under 4ft, fences under 7ft |
| Dwelling Use | - | ADU approval required |
| ADU Standards | - | SMMC §9.31.025 (separate) |
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.
Santa Monica FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica regulates accessory buildings under SMMC §9.21.020. Sheds and similar structures in residential zones must comply with setback and height requirements. Sheds may not contain a kitchen unless approved as an ADU.
How big can a shed be without a permit in Santa Monica?
Code Section: SMMC §9.21.020. Kitchen Restriction: Not allowed (ADU exception). Permit Exempt: Walls under 4ft, fences under 7ft. Dwelling Use: ADU approval required.
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