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.
West Covina, CA
West Covina prohibits gas-powered leaf blowers, lawn mowers, edgers, chain saws, and similar equipment in residential zones between 8 PM and 8 AM. CA AB 1346...
West Covina, CA
West Covina regulates industrial noise under Chapter 15, Article IV (Noise Regulations). Noise from industrial activities must not exceed ambient levels by m...
West Covina, CA
West Covina prohibits amplified music and sound devices between 10 PM and 7 AM if audible at 50 ft from the property line. Daytime noise that unreasonably di...
West Covina, CA
West Covina follows CA building code requirements for EV charging readiness in new construction. The updated Development Code (2024) incorporates EV charging...
West Covina, CA
West Covina regulates driveway parking through its zoning and vehicle codes. Parking must be on improved surfaces. Front yard parking on non-paved areas is p...
West Covina, CA
West Covina regulates street parking under Chapter 22 (Traffic Regulations). Vehicles parked on public streets for 72+ hours may be cited as abandoned under ...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how West Covina'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.