Is a Building Permit required for all structures?
Most cities and counties in California (and other Western states) have adopted the International Building Code (IBC), which specifies minimum standards for the construction of buildings. The IBC requires a Building Permit for most structures, but includes a list a structures that are exempt from needing a permit. The most common exempted type of structures are buildings of 120 square feet or less with maximum heights of 10 feet and that contain no plumbing or electrical fixtures. Fences less than 6 feet in height are another example of a structure the IBC exempts from needing a Building Permit. However, each locality can adopt the IBC with certain modifications. You should contact your local Building Department to determine if all the IBC’s exemptions have been adopted. Also ask them which edition of the IBC has been adopted by your City Council or Board of Supervisors. Most public libraries have a copy of the latest edition of the IBC and earlier editions.
