Built-in outdoor kitchens in Anaheim require permits through the Planning & Building Department: a building permit for the structure, a gas-line permit for natural-gas or stationary LP-gas connections, an electrical permit, and a plumbing permit for sinks. Structures must comply with AMC Title 18 setbacks for accessory structures. Title 24 energy and CalGreen apply to new construction.
Anaheim's Planning & Building Department administers outdoor kitchen permits under the California Building, Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical Codes adopted in AMC Title 15 and AMC Title 16 (Fire). A building permit is required for the masonry counter, structural slab, and any roofed pergola or pavilion. The California Mechanical Code requires a mechanical permit for natural-gas line extensions to a built-in grill, including a final pressure test by Southern California Gas Company before service is restored. The California Plumbing Code requires a plumbing permit for any new sink, hose-bib, or ice-maker line connected to the domestic supply. The California Electrical Code requires an electrical permit for outdoor GFCI outlets and lighting, which must be rated for damp/wet locations. Stationary propane tanks larger than 5 gallons require additional review under CFC Chapter 61 (LP-Gas). Outdoor kitchens must comply with AMC Title 18 (Zoning) accessory-structure setback rules — typically 5 ft side/rear in most single-family zones, with greater setbacks for roofed structures or in the Anaheim Resort District (Ch. 18.116). Roofed outdoor kitchens count toward lot coverage. CalGreen Title 24 energy-efficiency standards apply to new construction.
Building an outdoor kitchen without required permits is a violation of AMC Title 15 with stop-work orders and double permit fees on after-the-fact applications. Unpermitted gas-line work is particularly serious — Anaheim Fire & Rescue can order shutdown and SoCalGas can disconnect service. Daily fines accrue under AMC Title 1 until correction.
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