Metal buildings in California.
Carports, garages, RV covers and barns for California properties. Wildfire zones, earthquakes, mountain snow and the coast can all change what your building needs. Here’s how to find out which apply to you.
Your California questions, answered.
Do you deliver anywhere in California?
Yes. Our coverage includes the whole state.
Do I need a building permit?
Almost always. The California building codes apply statewide, and your city or county issues permits. Only small one-story accessory buildings of 120 square feet or less are exempt from a building permit, and even those must meet zoning and, in fire zones, some wildfire rules. Most carports and garages are larger.
Is my property in a fire hazard severity zone?
Check the state map. In mapped fire hazard severity zones, an accessory building closer than 50 feet to the home generally must be built of noncombustible or ignition-resistant materials; one 50 feet or more away is exempt from those rules. Some counties are stricter. New state “Zone 0” rules for the first 5 feet around a home are pending and not yet in effect. Ask your building department what applies before choosing the location.
Does earthquake design matter for a carport?
Yes, in much of California. Seismic requirements depend on your exact location and soil. Your building department will tell you what applies, and we review the building for your address.
My property is in the mountains. What changes?
Snow and access. Ground snow loads in the Sierra Nevada and other high areas are far higher than at lower elevations. Ask the county for the number at your address. Mountain roads, steep drives and winter chain controls can make delivery harder.
My property is near the coast. Anything else?
Check whether you are in the coastal zone. New development there can need a coastal development permit from your city or county, or from the California Coastal Commission. Ask the local planning department before you order.
How do delivery and installation work?
We review your building, location and site details before confirming timing. You prepare a level site and arrange required local approvals. Narrow streets, gates, slopes, retaining walls and backyard access can make delivery harder. A quote request does not reserve an installation date.
Do I need to call 811 before installation?
Yes. Contact 811 at least two working days before work starts, not counting the day you call, and no more than 14 days ahead. Northern and central California use USA North 811; Southern California uses DigAlert. Tell them where the building will sit and that ground anchors will be installed.
Lines you own, such as power to a garage or irrigation lines, are not marked through 811.
Does my HOA need to approve it?
If you have one, get written approval first. Many California HOAs limit carports, metal buildings, colors and placement.
Useful California resources
- Fire hazard severity zones ↗
Look up wildfire zones by address.
- Coastal development permits ↗
Rules for building in the coastal zone.
- USA North 811 ↗
Utility markings in northern and central California.
- DigAlert ↗
Utility markings in Southern California.