Garage Permits in California | The Complete Guide

Adding a garage to your property is a great way to protect your vehicles from the elements, gain extra storage space, or even create an accessory dwelling unit for guests. But navigating the permitting process can quickly throw a wrench in your plans. It’s easy to put off the garage project that would make your life easier when figuring out which permits you need—and how to apply for them—feels so complicated.

We get it. That’s exactly why we put together this comprehensive guide on garage permits in California. In this blog, you’ll learn which of California’s 58 counties require permits, what their requirements are, how to complete a permit application, and more!

Don’t want to deal with all the paperwork, codes, and fine print? We’ve got you covered. When you build a custom detached garage with Golden State Buildings, we’ll handle the entire permitting process for you—from creating garage plans that meet local building requirements to filing and submitting your permit application. That way, you can skip the stress and focus on getting the garage you’ve been dreaming about.

Do You Need a Permit to Build a Garage in California?

Yes, a permit will likely be required to construct a garage in California. Similar to shed permits, garage permits are generally governed by the 2022 California Building Code, which requires a building permit for detached accessory structures larger than 120 square feet. However, some local jurisdictions may have stricter rules and require a permit regardless of the garage’s size. Be sure to contact your local building or planning department to confirm specific requirements before starting construction.

Do Detached Garages Need Permits?

Attached garages in California are subject to stricter rules than detached garages. For example, detached garages under 120 square feet often don’t require a permit. However, since most garages are larger than 120 square feet, you’ll likely need a permit—whether the garage is attached or detached.

Do You Need A Permit to Tear Down A Garage in California?

Yes, California requires you to obtain a permit to alter, repair, construct, move, or demolish a structure. If you plan to tear down a garage on your property, you’ll first need to get a demolition permit from your local building department.

Which Counties in California Require A Garage Permit?

Most of the 58 counties listed below follow the 2022 California Building Code, which requires a permit for garages larger than 120 square feet. All counties are included for informational purposes; however, please note that Golden State Buildings does not serve every county.

This list of permit requirements is designed to help you determine whether your new garage will require a permit. There may be additional local regulations you’ll need to follow. It’s always best to have your project details reviewed and approved by your local building or zoning department before starting construction.

If you’re in our service area, we handle the permit filing for all garage projects we work on. Click the button below to see if we serve your location!

Want to skip directly to your county? Just click on it below, and it’ll take you to the section where we cover the requirements in your area!

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Alameda County, California?

Yes, garages are classified as an accessory structure, meaning that a building permit is required if the garage you plan to construct is larger than 120 square feet. You can contact the Alameda County Planning Department for more information on permitting requirements. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Alpine County, California?

Yes, Alpine County, under the California state code, requires a permit for any structure being built, including garages. You can contact the Alpine County Building Safety Division if you have any questions about size, setback, and other garage permit requirements. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Amador County, California?

Yes, as you’ll find across the state of California, permits are required to construct any structure over 120 square feet, including a garage. The Amador County Building Department can answer any questions you may have about setbacks, types of permits, and other requirements for building a garage on your property. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Butte County, California?

Yes, Butte County requires a permit for garage construction following the requirements outlined in the 2022 Residential Building Code. If you have any questions about the garage permit application, plan check, or building fees, contact the Butte County Building Division at (530)-552-3700.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Calaveras County, California?

Yes, a building permit is required to construct a detached garage that is larger than 120 square feet or features any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical work. Any attached structures will require a permit. If you have any questions about this, please contact the Calaveras County Building Department.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Colusa County, California?

In Colusa County, a building permit is required for any new structure larger than 120 square feet, including a detached garage. To find out if your project requires a permit, it’s recommended that you contact the Colusa County Building Department.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Contra Costa County, California?

Almost all new construction projects require a permit, including garages. Permits can be obtained from the Contra Costa County Building & Planning Department. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Del Norte County, California?

According to the California Residential Code, any detached accessory structure over 120 square feet, including garages, requires a permit. If you have any questions about permitting, please contact the Del Norte Building Inspector.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in El Dorado County, California?

Yes, you will need a permit to construct a detached garage in El Dorado County, California if it is larger than 120 square feet or features any plumbing, mechanical, or electrical work. Permits can be obtained from the El Dorado County Building Division.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Fresno County, California?

A permit is required for detached garages that are larger than 120 square feet per the California State Building Code. The Fresno County Building & Safety Department can provide you with answers to any permitting questions or with guidance on filling out permit applications.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Glenn County, California?

Glenn County adheres to the California state building code, which requires a permit for all detached garages larger than 120 square feet. If you have any questions about their requirements or permit application, please consult with the county’s Building Inspector.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Humboldt County, California?

Like many other counties in California, Humboldt follows the state building code, which requires a permit for detached garages larger than 120 square feet. You can contact the county’s Building Inspection office to learn more about their requirements.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Imperial County, California?

Yes, a permit is required to construct any new building in Imperial County. Your detached garage project may not require a permit so long as it is less than 120 square feet and doesn’t include any plumbing, mechanical, or electrical work. If you have any questions about this, please contact the Imperial County Building Department.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Inyo County, California?

A garage is considered a new structure in Inyo County and, therefore, requires a building permit. A building permit can be obtained from the Inyo County Building & Safety Department. They can also answer any questions you have about square footage, setbacks, and other factors involved in building a garage that meets permit requirements.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Kern County, California?

Building permits are required for any new construction project that either changes an existing structure or adds a structure to your property. This would include garages. For other permitting requirements or any other questions you may have, please reach out to the Kern County Building Inspection office.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Kings County, California?

Yes, a permit is required for all accessory structures, including garages, in Kings County. If you have any questions about specific requirements or are ready to fill out your permit application, contact the county’s Community Development Agency. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Lake County, California?

Any structure, including a garage, larger than 120 square feet and taller than 12 feet, requires a building permit. Questions regarding permitting can be directed to the Lake County Planning Department.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Lassen County, California?

Per the California state building code, detached garages larger than 120 square feet require a building permit. Permits can be obtained from the Lassen County Planning & Building Services Department.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Los Angeles County, California?

Yes, a permit is required for all detached accessory buildings, including garages, in Los Angeles County that are larger than 120 square feet. The Los Angeles County Building & Safety Department can help answer any questions regarding permitting in the county. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Madera County, California?

Yes, new construction projects require a building permit. This includes garages larger than 120 square feet, as well as any project involving plumbing, mechanical, or electrical work.. If you have any questions or need to obtain a building permit, please contact the Madera County Building Division.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Marin County, California?

Yes, a permit is required for garages that are:

• Larger than 120 square feet
• More than 1 story
• Attached to your home or other structure
• In need of any mechanical, electrical, or plumbing work
• Being lived in

If you have any questions about these requirements or are ready to fill out the permit application, please reach out to the Marin County Building & Safety Department.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Mariposa County, California?

​​Mariposa County requires a permit for any new structure built on your property, including garages. Permits can be obtained from the county Building Department.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Mendocino County, California?

Mendocino County follows the California State Building Code, which requires a permit for all detached garages larger than 120 square feet. If you have questions about permit applications or requirements, contact the county Building Division.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Merced County, California?

Yes, a garage larger than 120 square feet, or one that involves plumbing, mechanical, or electrical work, requires a permit. Any questions about permitting can be directed to the Merced County Building & Safety Division.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Modoc County, California?

Modoc County appears to require a permit for any new construction, including garages. Please contact the county’s Building & Safety Department for specific permitting requirements.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Mono County, California?

Yes, permits are required for any new construction, including garages. Permits can be obtained from the Mono County Building Division. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Monterey County, California?

Yes, a building permit is required for garages in Monterey County. You can learn more about specific requirements from the Department of Building & Planning Services.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Napa County, California?

Napa County follows the California state building code, requiring garages larger than 120 square feet to have a building permit. If you have any questions about this, please consult with their Building Division.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Nevada County, California?

A permit is required for all garages, unless:

• It is a one-story detached structure
• It is less than 120 square feet in floor area
• Don’t feature any plumbing, mechanical, or electrical work

Permits can be obtained from the Nevada County Building Department.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Orange County, California?

Yes, a permit is required for all new buildings, including garages. If you have questions about specific requirements or are ready to obtain a permit, contact the Orange County Building & Safety Division.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Plumas County, California?

Yes, a residential garage permit is required for all garages built within the county. To learn more about this, please contact the Plumas County Building Department.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Riverside County, California?

Riverside County requires a building permit for all new construction, including garages. More information about garage permit applications can be found through the county’s Building & Safety Department. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Sacramento County, California?

Yes, a building permit is required to construct a garage larger than 120 square feet. You can obtain a permit or learn more about the requirements from the Sacramento County Building Permits & Inspections Division. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in San Benito County, California?

San Benito County follows the California state building code, which requires permits for detached garages larger than 120 square feet. Permits can be obtained from the county’s Building Division. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in San Bernardino County, California?

A permit is required in San Bernardino County if the garage you plan to build is larger than 120 square feet. Permits are not required for one-story detached garages that are less than 120 square feet. The San Bernardino County Building & Safety Department can help you with any permit-related questions. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in San Diego County, California?

A building permit is not required for garages that are less than 120 square feet. However, most garages are larger than this, meaning your project will likely require a permit. If you have any questions about this or are ready to obtain a permit, please reach out to the San Diego County Building Division. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in San Francisco County, California?

Yes, a permit is required to build any new structure in the county, including in a garage. The plans and permit application should be submitted to the Planning Department for review and approval. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in San Joaquin County, California?

San Joaquin requires a permit for the construction of all accessory structures, including detached garages. An accessory structure building permit can be obtained from the San Joaquin County Building Inspection office. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in San Luis Obispo County, California?

San Luis Obispo County not only requires a permit for all new construction, including detached garages, but may also require a minor use permit depending on the specifications of your project. If your detached garage occupies more than 1,000 square feet per dwelling unit on your property, then a minor use permit will be required for approval.

Additionally, detached garage requirements may vary depending on whether your property is located in an inland area or a coastal zone. Be sure to contact the county’s Planning & Building Department to determine exactly which requirements apply to your project.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in San Mateo County, California?

A building permit is required for garages larger than 120 square feet, which is the case for most garages. Building permits can be obtained from the San Mateo County Planning & Building Department. You can learn more about their building permit requirements here. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Santa Barbara County, California?

Santa Barbara County issues both planning and building permits for most construction projects, including garages. Under the California Building Code, garages smaller than 120 square feet do not require a building permit; however, a planning permit is still required. For garages larger than 120 square feet, both permits are necessary. Permits in Santa Barbara County can be obtained here.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Santa Clara County, California?

Yes, a building permit is required for detached garages larger than 120 square feet. Permits can be found at the Building Division of the Department of Development Services. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Santa Cruz County, California?

Yes, a permit is required for garages built in Santa Cruz County. You can learn more about permitting requirements from the county’s Community Development and Infrastructure Department. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Shasta County, California?

Shasta County requires a building permit to be obtained to build a garage on your property. Permits can be found at the county’s Building Department web page. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Sierra County, California?

Yes, Sierra County requires a permit for garages. The only exceptions are garages smaller than 120 square feet or private garages that were included in the original building plans for your home. If you have any questions, please contact the Sierra County Building Division.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Siskiyou County, California?

Siskiyou County follows the California building code, which means a permit is required if the garage you plan to build is larger than 120 square feet. A planning permit may still be required regardless of size. Permits can be found at the county’s applications and permits page.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Solano County, California?

Solano County also complies with the California Building Code, requiring a permit for detached garages larger than 120 square feet. Permits can be found at the Department of Building Safety’s online building permits page. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Sonoma County, California?

Yes, a residential building permit is required for garages being built in Sonoma County, California. Permits can be found on the permit services page of the Permit Sonoma website. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Stanislaus County, California?

Yes, a residential garage permit is required for garages less than 3,000 square feet. Larger garages likely require different or additional permits. You can find more information on garage permitting from the county’s Building Permits Division. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Sutter County, California?

Sutter County enforces the California Building Code, which requires a permit for detached garages larger than 120 square feet. Permits can be obtained from the county’s Building Services Department. For questions, you can contact Building Services at (530) 822-7400.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Tehama County, California?

Per the California Building Code, a permit must be obtained for all new construction of detached structures larger than 120 square feet, including garages. You can get your garage permit from the Tehama County Building & Safety Department.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Trinity County, California?

All new construction, including garages, must have a permit before being built. Permits can be found through the County Building Department. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Tulare County, California?

Under the 2022 California Building Code, a permit isn’t required for garages smaller than 120 square feet. However, since most garages exceed that size, a permit will likely be necessary. Permit applications are available through Tulare County’s Building Division.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Tuolumne County, California?

A permit is required for detached garages that are larger than 120 square feet. If your project is larger than 120 square feet and requires a permit, one can be obtained from Tuolumne County’s Building Division. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Ventura County, California?

Yes, a building permit is required to construct a garage in Ventura County, California. You can find permitting information and applications on the county’s Building & Safety Division’s website.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Yolo County, California?

A permit is required for garages larger than 120 square feet under the state’s building code. Most garages are larger than this, so you’ll likely need a permit to build one. Permits can be found on the county’s Building Inspection Services page. 

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Yuba County, California?

Permits aren’t required for accessory structures that are less than 120 square feet and under 8 feet tall. If your garage meets these requirements, a permit is not required. If it does not, you will need a permit. The county Building Department can help you get a permit, schedule inspections, or answer any questions you may have.

Which Municipalities in California Require A Garage Permit?

Below is a list of cities and whether they require a garage permit or not. You can click on your city in the chart below to skip to its permit requirements!

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Auberry, California?

There is currently no website or online resources for Auberry, making it unclear exactly what their permitting requirements are. However, most of California seems to follow the state building code, meaning a permit is likely required. Please visit the Auberry government office to find out exactly what they require.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Clovis, California?

Yes, a permit is required to build a garage in Clovis that is larger than 120 square feet. Permits can be found through the city’s Building Division. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Coarsegold, California?

While the exact requirements in Coarsegold are unclear since the city has no official website or published code, a permit will likely be required to build a garage. Most of California follows the state building code, which requires a permit for any structure larger than 120 square feet, including garages. To confirm what’s needed in Coarsegold, please contact your local building officials.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Dinuba, California?

A permit is required for garages that are larger than 120 square feet, which most garages are, so you will need a permit to build one. You can fill out a building permit application on their website or contact the Dinuba Building Division to learn more about their shed permit requirements. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Exeter, California?

Exeter also follows the California state building code, meaning a permit is required for any garage larger than 120 square feet. Permits can be obtained from the Tulare County Building Department.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Fresno, California?

The city of Fresno follows the same rules that the county of Fresno does, so you’ll need a permit for any garage that is larger than 120 square feet. Permits and permitting information can be found through the Fresno Building & Safety Department.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Friant, California? 

There is currently no website or clearly outlined building codes, so it’s uncertain what the exact rules are. However, a permit will likely be needed for garages larger than 120 square feet, in line with state and county regulations.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Goshen, California? 

Yes, a permit is likely required for garages in Goshen. You can find out more about specific requirements from the Goshen Permitting & Planning page. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Hanford, California? 

Detached garages in Hanford require a building permit if they are larger than 120 square feet. You can find the required building permits here. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Kerman, California?

Per the 2022 California Building Code, permits are required for accessory structures larger than 120 square feet, including garages. Building permits for garages in Kerman can be obtained from the Kerman Building Division.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Kingsburg, California?

Permits are required for garages larger than 120 square feet. You can find permit applications and more permitting information at the Kingsburg Building Department’s website. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Lemoore, California?

Yes, Lemoore follows the California building code, which requires permits for new construction and any accessory structure that’s larger than 120 square feet, including garages. If you have any questions or are ready to fill out a permit application, contact Building Inspections Services at 559-924-6744.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Los Angeles, California?

Yes, a permit is required for garages in Los Angeles larger than 120 square feet. Permits can be obtained from the Department of Building and Safety. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Madera, California?

Per the California building code, a permit is required for garages larger than 120 square feet. Permits can be obtained from the Madera Building Department.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Oakhurst, California?

While Oakhurst has no website or outlined building codes, the city is within Madera County, which requires permits for garages larger than 120 square feet. To find out exactly what is required for garages in Oakhurst, please consult with your local building officials. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Orange Cove, California?

Orange Cove follows the 2022 California building code, which requires a permit for garages larger than 120 square feet. Permits can be obtained from the Orange Cove Building & Engineering Department.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Prather, California?

Prather doesn’t currently have a website, so it’s unclear what the specific building guidelines are. However, it’s safe to assume that a permit is needed for garages over 120 square feet, based on county and state regulations. Be sure to contact Prather’s building officials to confirm the exact guidelines.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Reedley, California?

Reedley follows the 2022 California Building Code as well, meaning a permit is required for garages larger than 120 square feet. Contact the Reedley Community Development Department to obtain a permit or find out if one is required in your case.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Selma, California?

Selma has adopted the 2022 California Building Code, which, if you’ve read this far, you’ll know, means that a permit is required if your garage is larger than 120 square feet. Permits for garages in Selma that are larger than 120 square feet can be obtained from the city’s Building Department.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Shaver Lake, California?

It’s unclear exactly what is enforced in Shaver Lake, so it’s best to contact your local building officials to find out if a permit is needed for garages. However, a permit is likely required, as both the state and the county typically mandate permits for garages larger than 120 square feet.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Tulare, California?

Yes, per the California building code, permits are required for garages that are larger than 120 square feet. Permits can be acquired from the Tulare Building Department.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Visalia, California?

Yes, under the California state building code, permits are required for garages in Visalia that are larger than 120 square feet. Permits can be acquired from the City of Visalia Permit Center. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Garage in Yokuts Valley, California?

It’s also unclear what Yokuts Valley’s garage permit requirements are. They likely require one under the California state building code, but to be certain on this, reach out to your local building officials.

How Much Do Garage Permits in California Cost?

Fees vary depending on the size and scope of your garage, with costs ranging from $200 to even $2,000 or more. On average, they typically cost between $200 and $500. Most building departments include permitting fee schedules on their website, letting you know how much they’ll cost based on your project plans. The city of Los Angeles even offers a permit fee calculator. 

How Far Does A Garage Need to be From the Property Line in California?

Setback requirements for garages vary depending on where you reside in California. For example, Ventura requires that garages be set back three feet from any property lines, while San Diego County requires that they be 2 feet from side or rear property lines. 

Can Garages Be Used As ADUs in California?

Yes, you can live in a garage that has been built to match the definition of an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in California.

Are Garage Conversions Permitted in California?

Existing attached or detached garages can be converted into accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as long as they comply with California Building and Fire Code requirements. This includes having structurally sound walls and a foundation, as well as utilities such as electricity, water, and sewage (which may require additional permits), along with HVAC and proper insulation. More information on garage-to-ADU conversions is available through the California Department of Housing and Community Development.

Requirements for Garage Permits in California

If your garage requires a permit, you’ll need to complete a detailed application that includes information about the location, size, placement, materials, and more. Here’s a closer look at the requirements for filing and obtaining approval for a garage permit in California:

1. Gather Required Documents

Garage permit applications in California should include a site plan showing where the garage will be placed on your property, along with construction blueprints. These documents allow building inspectors to confirm that your project meets setback, sizing, and material requirements.

At Golden State Buildings, we handle all the engineered plans needed for your garage and include them when we submit the permit application on your behalf. We manage every step of the permitting process, so you don’t have to!

2. Fill Out & Submit The Application

If you go with Golden State Buildings to build your detached garage, then you won’t have to worry about this part. We’ll take care of filling out the application, including the required documents, and submitting your application, ensuring all details of your project meet local requirements.

3. Schedule Any Inspections

Once your application is approved, you may need to schedule inspections for your garage construction project at various stages, such as:

• After the foundation or anchoring is installed, so that the inspector can verify that the shed is securely placed
• Electrical or plumbing installations, if added, to ensure they meet code requirements (separate permitting is required for these installations)
• Final inspection after the shed is complete to make sure everything complies with regulations/the initial site plans

4. Pay Fees

Permitting fees and potential fees for inspections may apply. Make sure that all fees are paid before you finish your project. 

Are You Searching For A Detached Garage Builder That’ll Handle Permitting For You?

Now that you know whether a permit is needed for your garage, navigating applications, site plans, inspections, and compliance can still feel overwhelming. At Golden State Buildings, we’re here to make the process easy—so you can focus on getting the detached garage you’ve been looking for. That’s why we take care of everything from designing your custom garage to building it—and even filing the permit!

Whether you’re storing one, two, or three cars, we’ll help you build a garage that meets local regulations and complements your property beautifully. To get started, plan your custom garage design with our 3D Builder.

When you’re ready to move forward, contact us or request a free quote!