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.
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