In unincorporated LA County, decks not more than 30 inches above grade and not over any basement or story below are exempt from building permits. Elevated decks, covered patios, and attached patio covers require permits from the DPW Building and Safety Division.
Under the California Building Code (as adopted by LA County in Title 26), decks, walks, and driveways not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade at any point and not placed over any basement or story below are exempt from building permits. Decks above 30 inches require a building permit and must meet structural, setback, and guardrail requirements (42-inch guardrails required for decks 30+ inches above grade). Covered patios and patio covers (pergolas with roofing) are considered structures and require permits. Setback requirements apply — typically 5 feet from property lines for accessory structures. In hillside areas, additional geotechnical review may be required. Patios at or near grade level (concrete slabs, pavers) generally do not require permits unless they affect drainage or are part of a larger project.
Building an elevated deck without a permit may result in a stop-work order, required engineering review, double permit fees, or mandatory demolition if it cannot meet code.
Glendale, CA
Glendale limits construction noise to 7 AM to 7 PM on weekdays and 8 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays. Construction is prohibited on Sundays and city-observed holiday...
Glendale, CA
Glendale is impacted by aircraft noise from Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), located adjacent to the city's southeastern border. Aircraft noise is federally ...
Glendale, CA
Glendale enforces nighttime noise restrictions under the Glendale Municipal Code. It is unlawful to operate radios, musical instruments, TVs, or other sound-...
Glendale, CA
Glendale addresses barking dogs under its noise ordinance and animal control regulations. Persistent barking that disturbs neighbors constitutes a nuisance. ...
Glendale, CA
Glendale restricts amplified sound under GMC 8.36 Article II. Sound-amplifying equipment may not exceed 15 dBA above the actual or presumed ambient at any pr...
Glendale, CA
Glendale enforces presumed ambient noise standards under GMC 8.36.040. Residential (single-family/duplex) zones are limited to 55 dBA daytime and 45 dBA nigh...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how Glendale's deck & patio permits rules stack up against other locations.
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