Shed Permits in California | The Complete Guide

Adding a shed to your property can be an exciting project! Not only can it help free up space, but it can also enhance the look of your backyard. However, the excitement often fades when you start navigating the maze of shed permit requirements in California. Permitting rules can be confusing, complex, and time-consuming to figure out. But don’t let the challenges stop you from building the shed you’ve been dreaming of.

We’re here to make the permitting process easier for you. In this blog, we’ll simplify the information, saving you the hassle of searching through pages of regulations. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive guide covering all 58 counties in California, including whether a permit is required, minimum shed size requirements, estimated permit costs, and more.

Let’s dive in and explore everything you need to know about shed permits in California, so you can take one step closer to having the perfect shed for your property!

Do You Need A Permit For A Shed in California?

According to the 2022 California Building Code, you’ll likely need a permit if your shed is 120 square feet or larger. Even if your shed is smaller than 120 square feet, a permit is required if you plan to add plumbing, electrical, or mechanical equipment. Remember that these utilities may require separate permits in addition to the standard building permit for larger sheds.

You might still need a permit if your shed is under 120 square feet and doesn’t include utilities. This depends on the rules set by your county or municipality. Keep reading to find out the specific requirements for your area.

Which Counties in California Require A Shed Permit?

Most counties in California require you to comply with either their local shed permit regulations or the rules outlined in the 2022 California Building Code. To make things easier, we’ve created a chart below listing all 58 counties in California. For each county, you’ll find the appropriate government department to contact for questions and a summary of their shed permit requirements.

Golden State Building does not supply sheds for every county listed below. This guide is designed to make it easier to navigate shed permit requirements across California, but it may not include all the rules or regulations you need to follow. Your best source for accurate permitting information is always your local government office.

If you’re in our service area and plan to purchase a shed or garage from us that’s larger than 120 square feet and requires a permit, we will help figure out any code or zoning requirements to ensure that your structure is built in compliance with local regulations.

Want to skip directly to your county? Click on your county here in the chart to find out exactly what their shed permit requirements are!

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Alameda County, California?

Alameda County follows the California State Building Code, requiring a building permit for sheds over 120 square feet or permits for any utilities such as plumbing, electrical, or mechanical. If you have questions about obtaining a shed permit in Alameda County, contact their Planning Department. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Alpine County, California?

Yes, a building permit is required for sheds larger than 120 square feet in Alpine County. To obtain a permit, schedule inspections, or ask questions, contact the Alpine County Building Safety Division.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Amador County, California?

Yep! Amador County also requires a permit for sheds larger than 120 square feet or any utilities such as plumbing or electrical. If you have any questions about their permitting requirements, want to obtain your permit, or need to schedule an inspection, contact their Building Department. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Butte County, California?

Butte County requires a building permit for one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and other similar uses if the floor is 120 square feet or more. If any utilities are connected to the structure, you must obtain permits for those. You can contact their Building Division with any of your permit questions. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Calaveras County, California?

Unsurprisingly, Calaveras County also follows the California State Building Code, meaning a permit isn’t required if your shed is less than 120 square feet. However, if it is larger than that or has any attached utilities, a building permit is required. For any questions or to obtain a permit and schedule inspections, contact the Calaveras County Building Department.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Colusa County, California?

Colusa County follows the 2022 California State Building Code, which requires a permit for any shed or accessory structure larger than 120 square feet. To obtain a building permit, you can submit an application at their online permit portal. If you have any questions about the permitting process in Colusa County, contact their Building Division.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Contra Costa County, California?

A permit is not required in Contra Costa County if your shed is 120 square feet or less. However, you will need a permit if they are hooked up to any utilities, and they must still comply with setback requirements. If you have any questions regarding shed permits, contact their Building & Planning Department.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Del Norte County, California?

Del Norte County follows the 2022 California Building Code, which requires permits for sheds larger than 120 square feet or those with connected utilities. To apply for a permit, schedule inspections, or ask questions about shed permitting, contact the county’s Building Inspector.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in El Dorado County, California?

A permit is not required in El Dorado County if the shed you plan to build is 120 square feet or less, a single-story, detached structure with no utility connections. Even if a permit is not required, your shed must comply with zoning setback requirements. If you have any questions or are ready to start the permitting process, contact the county Building Division.

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

In Fresno County, a permit is not required for sheds that meet the following criteria:

• 120 square feet or smaller,
• Less than 12 feet in height, and
• Located at least three feet from any property line.

However, a building permit is required if your shed exceeds these dimensions, is attached to another structure, has additional stories, or includes utility hookups (such as electricity or plumbing).

For more information or to start the permitting process, contact the Fresno County Building & Safety Department.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Glenn County, California?

A permit is required in Glenn County for sheds that are larger than 120 square feet per the 2022 California building code. To obtain building permit forms, submit an application, schedule an inspection, or get any questions answered, contact the Glenn County Building Inspector. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Humboldt County, California?

Yes, they follow the 2022 California Building Code, which requires a permit for sheds larger than 120 square feet, have more than one story, or are attached to another structure. If you’re ready to get started on obtaining a building permit or have any questions, reach out to the Humboldt County Building Inspector. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Imperial County, California?

In Imperial County, a permit is required for sheds that are 120 square feet or larger. Sheds smaller than 120 square feet do not require a permit but must comply with setback requirements. Contact the Imperial County Building Department for more information or assistance obtaining a permit.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Inyo County, California?

Inyo County sheds measuring 120 square feet or more must have a permit. Smaller sheds are exempt from permit requirements but must adhere to setback regulations. Contact the Inyo County Building Department for further details or help with the permitting process.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Kern County, California?

A shed permit is not required in Kern County if your shed meets the following requirements:

• It is less than 120 square feet in floor area
• It is only a single-story
• It is used for storage, tools, or as a playhouse
• It is not attached to any other structures
• It has no plumbing, electrical, or mechanical hookups

A building permit is required if your shed does not meet the following requirements. Contact the Kern County Building Inspection Office for more information or to get started on the permitting process.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Kings County, California?

Yes, a permit is required for all accessory buildings, including sheds, require a permit. If you have any questions about permit requirements or are ready to submit a permit application, contact the Kings County Community Development Agency. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Lake County, California?

A permit is required for Lake County sheds taller than 12 feet or larger than 120 square feet. A zoning clearance is still required if your shed is less than 12 feet or 120 square feet. Contact their Planning Department for more information on their shed permitting requirements.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Lassen County, California?

Per the 2022 California Building Code, a permit is required for sheds larger than 120 square feet, more than one story, or attached to another structure. The Lassen County Planning & Building Services Department can help you obtain a building permit for your shed or answer any questions related to permitting. 

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

Sheds under 120 square feet, no taller than 12 feet, and with a roof projection of 24 inches or less do not require a permit in Los Angeles County. However, a separate permit is required if you add utilities to a shed that meets these criteria. For sheds larger than 120 square feet or to learn more about permitting requirements, contact the Los Angeles County Building & Safety Department.

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

Madera County has adopted the 2022 California building code, requiring permits for sheds greater than 120 square feet. Their Building Division can answer any questions about additional permitting requirements or help you apply for a building permit.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Marin County, California?

Marin County does not require a permit for a one-story detached, non-habitable shed or playhouse less than 120 square feet. If your shed requires a permit or if you want to ensure that your shed, which is less than 120 square feet, still complies with zoning regulations, contact the Marin County Building & Safety Department.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Mariposa County, California?

Like most other counties in California, you will need a permit for a shed only if it is larger than 120 square feet or more than a one-story detached structure. To obtain that permit or ask any questions about permitting, contact the Mariposa Building Department.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Mendocino County, California?

Yes, a permit is required for sheds greater than 120 square feet under the 2022 California building code. The Mendocino County Permits & Licenses Department can answer any questions about permitting or help you obtain a permit for your shed. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Merced County, California?

Merced County does not require a building permit for one-story detached residential accessory buildings (tool and storage sheds and playhouses) if the roof area is no more than 120 square feet and the height does not exceed 12 feet. If you have any questions about the information presented here or are ready to obtain a permit, please contact the Merced County Building & Safety.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Modoc County, California?

It is unclear what exact requirements Modoc has in place for shed construction. Most places require a building permit for any new construction, so it’s best to contact their Building & Safety Department to find out if you need a permit for the shed you plan to add to your property. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Mono County, California?

Yes, a building permit is required in Mono County for sheds larger than 120 square feet, and a planning permit is required if your shed is less than 120 square feet. Go to the Mono County building permit application page to start the permitting process. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Monterey County, California?

A permit is not required in Monterey County if it is less than 240 square feet and has no electrical or plumbing. However, even if your shed meets these minimum requirements, it must still comply with planning regulations such as setbacks and design specifications. If you have any questions about this or are ready to obtain a permit, contact Building Services.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Napa County, California?

Yes, a permit is required for sheds in Napa County. For more information or to obtain a permit, contact the Napa County Building Division.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Nevada County, California?

A permit is not required if the structure is a one-story detached accessory building without electrical, mechanical, or plumbing systems and not intended for habitation. The structure must have a projected roof area of 200 square feet or less, comply with setback requirements, and be limited to one structure per parcel. If utilities are added, the exemption no longer applies, and a permit will be required. If you have any questions about this or need a permit for your shed, contact the Nevada County Building Department. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Orange County, California?

Although the 2022 California Building Code exempts sheds 120 square feet or smaller from requiring a permit, Orange County requires a building permit for all structures, regardless of the code’s exemption. For more information or assistance with obtaining a permit for your shed, contact the Orange County Building and Safety Division.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Placer County, California?

You will need a permit for your shed in Placer County if it does not meet the following criteria:

• One-story detached structure
• Used for storage, tools, or a playhouse
• The floor area is no more than 120 square feet

If, based on this information, you need a building permit for your shed or you have any questions at all, please contact Placer County Building Services. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Plumas County, California?

Plumas County also requires a building permit for sheds larger than 120 square feet or with any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical equipment. To obtain said permit or to get any questions about permitting answered, contact the Plumas County Building Department. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Riverside County, California?

Yes, Riverside County adheres to the 2022 California State Building Code, which requires permits for one-story detached structures larger than 120 square feet. For more details or to start your permit application, contact the Riverside County Building & Safety Department.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Sacramento County, California?

A building permit is required in Sacramento County if your shed is larger than 120 square feet and less than 9 feet tall. Your shed can be 120 square feet and between 9-12 feet tall and still not require a permit. However, it must be at least 5 feet from the property line and maintain all required setbacks. The Sacramento County Planning & Environmental Review Board can help answer any questions about this or get you started on the permitting process.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in San Benito County, California?

You will need a permit for any shed larger than 120 square feet or taller than 10 feet. San Benito County allows only three detached accessory buildings of less than 120 square feet per lot. For more information, contact San Benito County Building Services. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in San Bernadino County, California?

A residential accessory permit is required for any shed that is larger than 120 square feet. The San Bernadino County Building & Safety Department can help you obtain this permit or answer any questions you may have. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in San Diego County, California?

San Diego may not require a building permit for sheds that are 120 square feet or less that don’t have any utilities. However, they still require a planning permit for sheds that are under 120 square feet. Learn more about this or obtain one of the aforementioned permits through the San Diego County Building Division. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in San Francisco County, California?

A building permit is required for any storage shed that is larger than 100 square feet or taller than 8 feet. The plans and permit application can be submitted to the Planning Department for approval. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in San Joaquin County, California?

A building permit is required for sheds that are larger than 120 square feet, and a planning permit is required for sheds that are less than 120 square feet. The Building Inspection office can review your permit application or answer any questions you may have about shed permitting. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in San Luis Obispo County, California?

Storage sheds larger than 120 square feet, taller than 12 feet, or with any utilities require a construction permit. If your shed is less than that, a permit is not required. Contact the San Luis Obispo County Planning & Building Department to learn more or to begin filling out a permit application.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in San Mateo County, California?

San Mateo County requires a permit if your shed is larger than 120 square feet or taller than 12 feet. A permit is not required if your shed is a one-story detached structure less than 120 square feet in floor area and less than 12 feet tall. If you have any questions about this or are ready to fill out an application, contact the San Mateo County Planning & Building Department. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Santa Barbara County, California?

Santa Barbara County doesn’t require a permit if your shed is less than 120 square feet. If it is larger than that, a permit will be required. Contact their permitting office to obtain your shed permit if needed. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Santa Clara County, California?

A building permit is not required if your shed is a one-story detached structure that does not exceed 120 square feet. If your shed does not meet these requirements, you must obtain a permit from Santa Clara County Building Services. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Santa Cruz County, California?

A building permit is required for sheds that are larger than 120 square feet or taller than 10 feet high. If your shed is a single-story detached structure under this size requirement, a permit is not required. If your shed requires a permit, please visit the Unified Permit Center to get started on your application. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Shasta County, California?

Shasta County also requires a permit for a shed larger than 120 square feet or taller than 12 feet. This permit can be obtained from the Shasta County Building Department. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Sierra County, California?

In accordance with the 2022 California Building Code, Sierra County does not require permits for sheds that are less than 120 square feet. If you have any additional questions about permitting or are ready to obtain your permit, the Sierra County Building Division can help. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Siskiyou County, California?

Building permits are required in Siskiyou County for sheds that are larger than 120 square feet. A planning permit is still required for sheds that are under 120 square feet. If your project requires a permit, it can be obtained through the applications and permits page.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Solano County, California?

You will not need a permit to build your shed if it is a one-story detached accessory building that has a floor area of less than 120 square feet and no electric, mechanical, or plumbing attachments. If your project requires a permit, you can get one from the Solano County Building & Safety Services Department. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Sonoma County, California?

A permit is required for sheds regardless of size. You will need a building permit if your shed is larger than 120 square feet, is attached to another structure, or has more than one story. A planning permit is required for sheds that are less than 120 square feet. If you have any questions about this or are ready for your permit, contact the Sonoma Building Division. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Stanislaus County, California?

Like most other counties in California, Stanislaus follows the 2022 California building code, which does not require a permit for sheds that are less than 120 square feet. A building permit is required for sheds larger than this. A permit can be obtained from the Stanislaus County Planning & Community Development Department. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Sutter County, California?

A shed that is less than 120 square feet and less than 8 feet tall does not require a building permit but must still meet property setback requirements. If your shed is larger than this, you must obtain a permit from Sutter County Building Services. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Tehama County, California? 

Tehama County follows the 2022 California building code, which means a permit will be required if the shed you plan to build is larger than 120 square feet. If this is the case for you, a permit can be obtained from their Building & Safety Department. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Trinity County, California?

Permits are required for sheds in Trinity County. You can submit your building permit application, three sets of building plans, and three site maps to the Trinity County inspector listed on their Building Division page. 

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

Tulare County also follows the 2022 California building code requiring a permit for sheds that are larger than 120 square feet or feature any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical systems. Building permit applications are available through the Tulare County Planning & Building Department, which can answer any questions you may have about permit requirements. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Tuolumne County, California? 

A permit is required for sheds larger than 120 square feet in Tuolumne County in accordance with the 2022 California building code. If your shed is larger than this and requires a permit, it can be obtained from the Tuolumne County Building Division. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Ventura County, California? 

Ventura County requires a permit for sheds. A building permit is required for sheds larger than 120 square feet and taller than 8’6”. Sheds smaller than this still must obtain a planning permit. Additionally, other permits may be required depending on whether you live in a coastal zone or not. For more information or to start the permitting process, visit the Ventura County Building & Safety Department. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Yolo County, California? 

Like many other counties in California, Yolo County also does not require a permit for sheds that are less than 120 square feet. However, if your shed is greater than this, a permit is required. To obtain one, visit the Yolo County Building Services Department. 

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Yuba County, California? 

Yuba County does not require a permit for sheds that are less than 120 square feet or under 8’ in height. A permit is required if your shed is larger than this. The county Building Department can help you get a permit or schedule inspections, or answer any questions you may have. 

What Municipalities In California Require A Shed Permit?

Below are a handful of cities in California and whether they require shed permits or not. To skip ahead to your city’s requirements, just click on it in the chart below!

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

Yes, you will likely need a permit to build a shed in Auberry. While they don’t have a website at this time that clearly outlines their shed permit requirements or who to contact, Fresno County does. So, if your shed is larger than 120 square feet, you will likely need a permit. Please visit your government office to begin the permitting process if it is required for the shed you plan to build.

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

Sheds in Clovis, California that are less than 120 square feet do not require a permit. If you plan to build a shed that is larger than 120 square feet, you will need to obtain a permit from the Building Division.

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

Coarsegold doesn’t have a website outlining their shed permit requirements or who to contact regarding permitting. Sheds in Coarsegold likely require a permit if they are larger than 120 square feet, in compliance with Madera County and the state of California’s requirements. Be sure to visit your local government office to obtain a permit if your project requires it. 

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

A permit is required for sheds in Dinuba that are larger than 120 square feet under the 2022 California Building Standards Code. 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 Shed in Exeter, California?

Yes, a permit is required for sheds that are larger than 120 square feet in Exeter. Building permits for sheds in Exeter that are larger than 120 square feet must be obtained by the Tulare County Building Department, as Exeter does not have a department responsible for them.

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

Much like the county it shares a name with, the city of Fresno doesn’t require permits if your shed is less than 120 square feet, under 12 feet tall, and is placed at least 3 feet away from the property line. Permits and applications for sheds over 120 square feet can be obtained from the Fresno Building & Safety Department. 

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

There is currently no website for Friant, making it hard to say exactly what they allow. Most likely, a permit will be required for sheds in Friant that are larger than 120 square feet, as required by the California State Building Code and as Fresno County requires.

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

Sheds in Goshen will likely require a permit if they are larger than 120 square feet, as is the case across most of California. To determine if your project requires a permit or to begin filling out a permit application, visit the Goshen Permitting & Planning page.

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

Building permits are not required for sheds in Hanford that are less than 120 square feet. However, you should call and check with the Planning Division at 559-585-2580 to ensure that your shed complies with zoning regulations. If the shed you plan to build is larger than 120 square feet, building permits can be obtained here.

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

Yes, permits are required for sheds in Kerman that are larger than 120 square feet, following the 2022 California Building Code. Permits can be obtained from the Kerman Building Division.

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

A permit is required for sheds in Kingsburg that are larger than 120 square feet. Permits can be obtained from the Kingsburg Building Department.

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

Yes, Lemoore has adopted the 2022 California Building Code, which requires permits for sheds that are larger than 120 square feet. 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 Shed in Los Angeles, California?

Just like the county, the city of Los Angeles doesn’t require a permit for sheds that are 120 square feet or less, no taller than 12 feet, and doesn’t have a roof projection of over 24 inches. For sheds in Los Angeles that are larger than this, permits can be obtained from the Department of Building & Safety.

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

A permit is not required for sheds in Madera that are less than 120 square feet, and that have no plumbing or electric hookups, which would require a utility permit. If your shed does not meet these minimum requirements, then you must obtain a permit from the Madera Building Department.

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

Oakhurst does not currently have a website, making it uncertain exactly what they require or who to contact. Madera County, which Oakhurst is in, doesn’t require permits for sheds under 120 square feet, but sheds larger than that will need a permit. This complies with the California state building code as well, meaning there is a strong possibility that Oakhurst follows these requirements. For the utmost certainty on this, please visit your local government building to find out exactly what their requirements are for shed permits.

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

Much like many other areas in California, Orange Cove has also adopted the state code, requiring permits for sheds that are larger than 120 square feet in floor area. Permits can be obtained from the Orange Cove Building & Engineering Department.

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

While Prather does not have a website, it isn’t hard to assume that the city will follow the 120-square-foot rule that most of California has adopted. This rule, outlined in the California State Building Code, requires permits for sheds that are larger than 120 square feet and does not require a permit if it is less than that. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to permitting, so be sure to contact your local government and find out exactly what they require.

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

Yes, Reedley has also adopted the 2022 California Building Code, which requires permits for sheds larger than 120 square feet. A permit may not be required, however, if your shed is less 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 Shed in Selma, California?

Selma has adopted the 2022 California Building Code, which, if you’ve read this far, you’ll know, means that permits aren’t required for sheds that are less than 120 square feet in floor area. If your shed is larger than this, you can get a permit from the Selma Building Department.

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

The 2022 California Building Code may also be applied in Shaver Lake, much like it is in Fresno County, where the town resides. In this case, a permit wouldn’t be required unless your shed is larger than 120 square feet. For utmost clarity on this, please visit your local government office to find out exactly what they require.

Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Squaw (Yokuts) Valley, California?

At this time, it’s not clear exactly what their shed permit requirements are, but they likely follow the 2022 California Building Code, which requires permits for sheds larger than 120 square feet in floor area. Your local government office can provide you with a clear answer to this question.

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

Shed permits are not required in Tulare so long as they meet the following requirements:

• One-story detached structure
• The floor area is less than 120 square feet
• There are no electrical, mechanical, or plumbing system

If your shed does not meet these requirements, a permit must be acquired from the Tulare Building Department.

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

Yes, a permit is required for sheds that are larger than 120 square feet per the 2022 California Building Code. Sheds that are less than that in floor area or are under 12 feet tall do not require a permit. Permits can be acquired from the City of Visalia Permit Center. 

How Much Does A Shed Permit in California Cost?

If your shed is less than 120 square feet, a permit may not be required in California. Therefore, a permit wouldn’t cost anything. For sheds larger than 120 square feet, costs can range from $200 to $600 or even $300 to $1,000 with any utilities. It’s important to note that some areas may have costs associated with inspection or any zoning review, even if a permit is not required. It’s always best to check with your local building department to determine what their permitting fees are. 

What Size Shed Can I Build Without A Permit in California?

According to the 2022 California Building Code, a shed that is 120 square feet or less in floor area and is no taller than 12 feet can be constructed without a permit. A shed larger than this or that has any utility hookups will require a permit. 

How Far Does A Shed Have to Be From The Property Line in California?

This can vary depending on the size of the shed you plan to build and where in California you plan to place it. Sheds that are 120 square feet or less typically require a setback of 3 to 5 feet from property lines. Sheds that are 120 square feet or more may have more stringent setback requirements, ranging from 5 to 15 feet from the property line. It’s best to contact your local building department to determine what their shed setback requirements are.

How Many Sheds Can I Have On My Property in California?

This can vary depending on where you live. Counties like Los Angeles only permit one shed per property as the city typically doesn’t have enough space to allow for more than one. On the other hand, San Diego County permits two. All in all, this depends on your local zoning ordinances, property size, and city or county regulations. Setback and square footage requirements for sheds will often tell you how many can fit on your property. 

Can I Live in a Shed in California?

Living in a shed in California is generally not feasible without significant modifications. While sheds under 120 square feet without utility hookups don’t require a permit, they are not suitable for habitation.

If you want to live in a shed, converting it into a tiny home or an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) may be an option. This typically involves adding utilities, which requires additional permits, and increasing the structure’s size to around 400 square feet. In such cases, a standard shed permit wouldn’t apply, but you would likely need permits such as a building permit, conditional use permit, or other approvals specific to tiny homes or ADUs.

Converting a shed to a livable space requires careful planning to meet building codes and zoning requirements. Be sure to always check with your local building or zoning department to determine if you are able to live in your shed.

How To Get A Shed Permit in California

Now that you know whether your project requires a permit, here are the steps you need to follow in order to get one:

1. Gather Required Documents

Most permit applications require a site plan that shows the planned location of your shed on your property. This helps verify that the shed meets setback requirements from property lines and maintains proper distance from other structures. Additionally, you’ll need to provide construction plans, including blueprints or detailed drawings of the shed, specifying its dimensions and materials.

Golden State Buildings takes care of gathering the engineered plans for your shed and includes them in the permit application for you. With us, you don’t have to worry about handling it yourself!

2. Fill Out Application

This step can feel overwhelming, especially with all the technical details you might not be familiar with. Don’t worry—Golden State Buildings is here to help. We’ll handle filling out the application, provide any necessary engineered plans, and make sure everything complies with regulations. If you’re in our service area, reach out to us—we’re happy to assist!

2. Submit Application

Once all the required documents are attached and the application is filled out, it can be submitted to either your local building department or online. Be sure to pay the application fees.

Golden State Buildings will even submit the application for you! With us, it’s a truly turnkey project from start to finish.

4. Await Review & Approval

Your local building department will review your application for compliance with local codes and regulations. If any changes are needed, they will notify you to make corrections.

5. Schedule Any Inspections

After your application is approved, you may need to schedule inspections at various stages of construction. These could include:

• Foundation or Anchoring: To ensure the shed is securely placed.
• Electrical or Plumbing Installations: If applicable, to confirm they meet code requirements.
• Final Inspection: Verify that the completed shed complies with all regulations.

Make sure to schedule each inspection as required for your project.

6. Pay Fees

Additional fees may be required for inspections or any changes you need to make to the plan. Be sure that it is all squared away before you complete your inspection.

Ready For Your Shed?

Now that you know whether your project requires a permit and how to obtain one, it’s time to find a shed builder in California who can meet your needs while adhering to local regulations. Golden State Buildings, based in Sanger, CA, specializes in providing both prefab and custom sheds for the local community.

We offer a variety of styles, including our Elite, Deluxe, and Value line prefab sheds, or we can custom-build a shed tailored to your specifications. With our easy-to-use 3D Builder, you can design a shed complete with storage, shelves, and more to fit your unique needs.

Have questions about the permitting process, or are you ready to start building your new shed? Contact us—we’re here to help!