Shed Rules: El Monte vs Glendale
How do shed rules rules compare between El Monte, CA and Glendale, CA?
Glendale has fewer restrictions than El Monte.
El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
One-story detached storage sheds up to 120 sq ft and 15 ft tall are exempt from building permits but must comply with zoning setbacks: minimum 4 ft from side and rear property lines and located behind the front half of the lot.
View full El Monte rules →Glendale, CA
Los Angeles County
Glendale allows sheds in residential zones. Structures under 120 square feet typically do not require a building permit under California Building Code. Sheds must comply with setback and height requirements.
View full Glendale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Monte | Glendale |
|---|---|---|
| Permit-exempt size | Up to 120 sq ft and 15 ft roof height | - |
| Side/rear setback | 4 ft minimum | - |
| Front placement | Must be in rear 50% of lot | - |
| Max total accessory area | 800 sq ft (residential zones) | - |
| Stories | 1 story maximum | - |
| Code sections | EMMC Title 15 §15.01 / Title 17 Div. 6 | - |
| Permit Exempt | - | Under 120 sq ft, one story |
| Setbacks | - | Must comply with zoning requirements |
| Lot Coverage | - | Counts toward maximum |
| Habitation | - | Not permitted |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Monte FAQ
Do I need a permit for a small shed in El Monte?
No building permit is required for a one-story detached shed that is 120 sq ft or smaller and no taller than 15 ft, per the California Building Code §105.2 as adopted in EMMC Title 15. You still must meet the zoning setbacks (4 ft side and rear) and place it in the rear half of the lot.
Can I put a shed against my back fence?
No. El Monte requires a minimum 4-foot setback from both side and rear property lines for accessory buildings in residential zones, even for permit-exempt sheds. The shed must also be located behind the midpoint of the lot depth.
Glendale FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in Glendale?
Sheds under 120 square feet and one story generally do not need a permit. Larger structures require permits. All must meet setback requirements.
How close can I put a shed to my property line?
Sheds must comply with your zone's setback requirements. Contact Glendale's Planning Division for specific setback distances.
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