Shed Rules: Altadena vs Torrance
How do shed rules rules compare between Altadena, CA and Torrance, CA?
Altadena has fewer restrictions than Torrance.
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 →Torrance, CA
Los Angeles County
Torrance regulates accessory structures under TMC Division 9. Conversions of existing structures to ADUs are exempt from size limits when no expansion beyond 150 sq ft occurs.
View full Torrance rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Torrance |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - | TMC Division 9 |
| ADU Conversion | - | No size limit if no expansion >150 sf |
| FAR Exclusion | - | ADUs excluded from §91.4.8(d) |
| Pre-Approved Plans | - | Available from Building & Safety |
| Contact | - | (310) 618-5990 (Planning) |
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.
Torrance FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in Torrance?
Torrance regulates accessory structures under TMC Division 9. Conversions of existing structures to ADUs are exempt from size limits when no expansion beyond 150 sq ft occurs.
How big can a shed be without a permit in Torrance?
Code Section: TMC Division 9. ADU Conversion: No size limit if no expansion >150 sf. FAR Exclusion: ADUs excluded from §91.4.8(d). Pre-Approved Plans: Available from Building & Safety.
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