Shed Rules: Carson vs Castaic
How do shed rules rules compare between Carson, CA and Castaic, CA?
Castaic has fewer restrictions than Carson.
Carson, CA
Los Angeles County
Sheds and other detached accessory structures in Carson are regulated under the Zoning Code (Carson Municipal Code Article IX, Chapter 1) with permit thresholds set by the California Building Code (Title 24 CCR) adopted in CMC Building Code chapter.
View full Carson rules →Castaic, CA
Los Angeles County
Small accessory structures under 120 square feet in unincorporated LA County generally do not require a building permit. Larger structures must comply with Title 26 building code and Title 22 zoning setbacks.
View full Castaic rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carson | Castaic |
|---|---|---|
| Permit-exempt size | One-story sheds ≤120 sq ft (CRC §R105.2 as adopted) | - |
| Code portal | ecode360.com/CA4377 (current through Jan 6, 2026) | - |
| Zoning chapter | CMC Article IX, Ch. 1 (Zoning) | - |
| Building code | CMC Building Code adopts Title 24 CCR (2022 CBSC) | - |
| Building & Safety | 701 E Carson St; (310) 830-7600 | - |
| Permit Exempt | - | Under 120 sq ft |
| Setback | - | 5 ft from property line |
| Height Limit | - | 15 feet |
| Permit From | - | Public Works B&S |
| Fire Zones | - | Extra standards apply |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carson FAQ
Do I need a permit for a small backyard shed in Carson?
A one-story detached storage shed of 120 sq ft or less is exempt from a building permit under the California Residential Code §R105.2 (adopted by Carson). However, you still must comply with Carson Zoning Code setbacks and lot-coverage limits in CMC Article IX, Ch. 1.
Where is Carson's current municipal code?
The current Carson Municipal Code is hosted on eCode360 at ecode360.com/CA4377, current through January 6, 2026. The zoning chapter (Article IX, Ch. 1) covers accessory structures.
Castaic FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in unincorporated LA County?
Sheds under 120 square feet and single-story typically do not need a building permit, but must meet zoning setback requirements. Sheds 120 square feet or larger need a building permit.
How close to the property line can I put a shed?
Accessory structures generally need to be at least 5 feet from side and rear property lines per Title 22 zoning code. Check your specific zone for exact requirements.
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