In unincorporated LA County, one-story detached accessory buildings (tool/storage sheds) under 120 square feet with a maximum height of 12 feet are exempt from building permits. Larger sheds require a permit from the DPW Building and Safety Division. All sheds must comply with zoning setbacks.
Under LA County Building Code Title 26 (adopting the California Building Code with local amendments), one-story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds are exempt from a building permit if: the gross floor area does not exceed 120 square feet, the height does not exceed 12 feet, and the maximum roof projection does not exceed 24 inches. However, separate electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits may still be required if the shed includes utilities. All sheds, regardless of permit exemption, must comply with zoning setback requirements under Title 22 (typically 5 feet from rear and side property lines, though this varies by zone). Sheds must also comply with lot coverage limits and fire-resistive requirements in fire hazard zones. Prefabricated (factory-built) sheds over 120 square feet require a permit and must bear a state insignia of approval.
Building a shed over 120 sq ft without a permit may result in a stop-work order, required permit application with double fees, or demolition order if the structure cannot be brought to code.
Downey, CA
Downey regulates leaf blower noise under its general noise ordinance. Gas-powered leaf blowers must comply with the 85 dBA construction equipment limit and o...
Downey, CA
Downey prohibits amplified music that exceeds ambient noise levels by more than 5 dBA at the property line. Quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM carry stricter lim...
Downey, CA
Industrial noise in Downey must not exceed established ambient levels by more than 5 dBA at the receiving property line. Corrective factors apply during dayt...
Downey, CA
California law (AB 1236) requires streamlined permitting for EV charging stations. Downey must provide expedited permits for residential EVSE installations. ...
Downey, CA
Driveway modifications in Downey require approval from Planning and possibly Engineering. Paving projects in the front yard area must meet development standa...
Downey, CA
Downey restricts oversized vehicle parking on public and residential streets. RVs must obtain permits under DMC 3182.5. Emergency parking allowed for 24 hour...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how Downey's shed & outbuilding permits rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.