Do you need a permit for a pergola, play set, or carport in Los Angeles, CA?
It depends on the details of your project.
Los Angeles has no size exemption for pergolas or carports.
Patio covers and carports need a building permit.
Play equipment is not a building and needs no permit.
A person last checked these rules on October 22, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Los Angeles before you build.
Check your exact lot
Your zoning district sets the setbacks, and a flood zone can change the permit answer. Enter your address to see both.
Permits a pergola, play set, or carport can need in Los Angeles
| Permit | When it applies |
|---|---|
| Building permit | Los Angeles has no size exemption for accessory structures, so plan on a permit for a pergola, gazebo, or carport.Medium confidence |
| Electrical permit | Lights, fans or outlets need an electrical permit.Medium confidence |
| Floodplain development permit | Structures in a FEMA special flood hazard area need a floodplain permit. |
Local details
- Call 811 at least a few days before you dig footings or post holes. Utility locating is free.
- HOA covenants and deed restrictions can be stricter than city rules. Check yours before you build.
How to apply
- LADBS
- ZIMAS parcel and zoning lookup
- Phone: 311 (213-473-3231)
Common questions
- When does a pergola, play set, or carport need a building permit in Los Angeles?
- Los Angeles has no size exemption for accessory structures, so plan on a permit for a pergola, gazebo, or carport. Play equipment is not a building and needs no permit.
- Where do I apply for a pergola, play set, or carport permit in Los Angeles?
- Apply through LADBS, or call 311 (213-473-3231).
Sources
- LAMC 91.106.2, Work exempt from a permit (Building Code, as amended by Ord. No. 188,797, eff. 12/31/25; American Legal). Checked 2026-10-23
91.106.2. Work exempt from a permit. (Amended by Ord. No. 188,797, Eff. 12/31/25.)... Permits shall not be required for the following: 1. Work regulated by this Code that is valued at $2,500 or less, unless it impacts the structural stability of a building,…
- 2024 IRC R105.2, Work exempt from permit (text published by the City of Benson, AZ). Checked 2026-10-19
One-story detached accessory structures, provided that the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet. Fences not over 7 feet high. Decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to a…
- 44 CFR 59.1, definition of development (NFIP). Checked 2026-10-19
Development means any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures...
- 44 CFR 60.3, floodplain management criteria. Checked 2026-10-19
Require permits for all proposed construction or other development in the community...