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.
Inglewood, CA
Inglewood is not located in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. The city is a flat, urbanized community with minimal wildfire risk. Standard fire codes ap...
Inglewood, CA
Properties must maintain defensible space per CA PRC 4291 where applicable. Inglewood is largely urbanized flatland with limited wildfire risk. Weed and wast...
Inglewood, CA
Inglewood allows recreational fire pits under SCAQMD and city fire department guidelines. Fire pits must use clean-burning fuels, be located away from struct...
Inglewood, CA
All fireworks, including so-called 'safe and sane' fireworks, are illegal in Inglewood. The city enforces a complete ban on the sale, possession, and use of ...
Inglewood, CA
Inglewood parks have posted closing hours. The city operates multiple parks including the Swimming Pool Complex at Vincent Park. After-hours park access is s...
Inglewood, CA
Inglewood enforces a juvenile curfew consistent with LA County standards. Exceptions include minors accompanied by parents, traveling to/from work, or attend...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how Inglewood's deck & patio permits rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.