Shed permit rules in Arcata, CA — also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations — set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Arcata's Land Use Code Section 9.42.030 governs accessory structures. One portable storage shed per residential lot is exempt from a building permit when consistent with the California Building Code's 120 sq ft / one-story threshold, but it must still meet the setback, height, and parking standards of the underlying zoning district. Section 9.20.030 lists accessory structures as an allowed use.
Under Arcata Land Use Code Section 9.42.030 (Accessory Structures), "a single portable structure per lot or unit, including pre-manufactured storage sheds and other small structures in residential zoning districts" is exempt from Building Permit requirements when in compliance with the California Building Code. The CBC exempts one-story detached accessory structures used as tool/storage sheds or playhouses up to 120 sq ft with no plumbing or electrical. Additional accessory structures may be approved under Section 9.42.030 when allowed by the zoning district. Even permit-exempt sheds must comply with setbacks, height limits, parking requirements, and other standards in the applicable zoning district (typically RL, RM, or RH). The Arcata Community Development Department (Building Division) issues permits at 707-822-5953.
Building over 120 sq ft without a permit, exceeding the one-structure cap, or violating zoning setbacks is a code violation. The Building Official can issue stop-work orders and require removal. Daily fines apply under the City's general penalty schedule.
Humboldt County, CA
Aircraft-in-flight noise is preempted by the FAA, but Humboldt County manages ground-level airport noise impacts through 65 CNEL Airport Land Use Compatibili...
Humboldt County, CA
Persistent dog barking in unincorporated Humboldt County is regulated as a public nuisance. The General Plan's Noise Element provides numeric Lmax limits app...
Humboldt County, CA
Humboldt County's General Plan Noise Element exempts heavy equipment and power tools used during construction of permitted structures from the Lmax noise sta...
Humboldt County, CA
Amplified music in unincorporated Humboldt County must comply with the General Plan Lmax noise standards (65 dBA day / 60 dBA night at residential property l...
Humboldt County, CA
The Humboldt County General Plan Noise Element sets nighttime maximum noise standards of 60 dBA for single-family residential zones (RS, R-1, R-2, NR) measur...
Humboldt County, CA
Humboldt County relies primarily on California Vehicle Code §22651 to tow vehicles parked over 72 hours and on CVC §§22660-22669 (Abandoned Vehicle Abatement...
See how Arcata's shed rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.