Deck Permit requirements across California
By Mario Bailey Last verified 2026-06-17
Requirements and size thresholds for deck permits vary by locality. The table below compares what each California county or city requires. Always confirm with the local office before starting.
| Locality | Permit required? | Typical threshold |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | Yes | Not specified |
| Sacramento | Conditional | uncovered deck 30 inches or more above grade requires a building permit |
| San Diego | Conditional | deck over 200 sq ft or over 30 inches above grade or attached to a dwelling requires a permit |
| San Jose | Conditional | deck over 200 sq ft or over 30 inches above grade or attached to dwelling or serving required exit requires a permit |