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.
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena restricts overnight street parking in certain posted areas. Vehicles left on public streets for 72+ hours may be cited as abandoned per CA Vehicle C...
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena has extensive metered and permit parking. Vehicles may not remain parked in one spot on a public street for more than 72 hours. Residential permit p...
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena requires EV-ready infrastructure in new construction per California Green Building Standards (CALGreen). Pasadena Water & Power offers EV charging p...
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena enforces 100 ft defensible space per CA PRC 4291 in fire hazard zones. Zone 1 (0-30 ft) and Zone 2 (30-100 ft) requirements apply. Annual brush clea...
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena allows recreational fire pits in approved containers at least 15 feet from structures. Gas-fueled fire pits are preferred. Wood-burning pits are sub...
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena prohibits open burning under South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 444 and the California Fire Code. Burning trash, yard waste, and debri...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how Pasadena'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.