Shed Installation Permits in Torrance

Local Rule

City of Torrance Community Development Department, Building and Safety Division; California Residential Code Section R105.2 (Torrance-adopted)

Torrance exempts a one-story detached accessory structure such as a tool shed, storage shed, or playhouse from a building permit when it does not exceed 120 square feet, per the city's own published exemption list. Fences not over 3 feet high are separately exempt (fences over 6 feet in side/rear yards require a permit under the Municipal Code). Retaining walls not over 4 feet, measured from the bottom of the footing to the top, are also exempt unless supporting a surcharge or impounding certain liquids. Detached garages and other accessory structures over 120 square feet generally require both a permit and a site plan.

Source · Verified September 2026

Torrance Building Department

Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.

How This Compares to Los Angeles County

Torrance's own rule is shown above (No permit under 120 sqft). Here is the separate rule that applies at the county level, for context:

Los Angeles County / local code

California's building code lowers the shed exemption to 120 square feet (a 10x12 shed), below the national 200, with a 12-foot height cap. Anything larger, taller, on a permanent slab, or with electrical or plumbing needs a permit. In Los Angeles County the shed must also meet zoning setbacks (commonly 5 feet from side and rear lines) and, in fire-hazard zones, ignition-resistant requirements.

See the full county page

Nearby Cities with Verified Rules

Other cities near Torrance with a confirmed shed installation rule:

FAQs

Building It Yourself? Here's What You'll Need

Popular tools and materials homeowners use for a shed installation project:

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