Plumas County, CA Accessory Structures: Shed Rules (2026)

Sheds and detached accessory buildings in unincorporated Plumas County are regulated under Title 8 Building Regulations and Title 9 Zoning. The county's building code amendments (Sec. 8-1.08) authorize the Building Official to issue a special 'no-fee permit' for one-story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses when the floor area exceeds 120 square feet but does not exceed 200 square feet. A no-fee permit does not cover work that requires separate plumbing, electrical, or mechanical permits. As a practical threshold, a detached shed of 120 square feet or less without utilities generally does not require a building permit, consistent with the California Building Code exemption adopted by the county. Placement is still subject to the zoning yard (setback) requirements of the parcel's district under Chapter 2 of Title 9. Note that Plumas County's mountain and Sierra parcels also fall within State Responsibility Area fire-safe regulations (Title 9, Chapter 9), which can affect defensible-space clearance around structures. Because thresholds depend on size, utilities, zoning district, and fire-safe rules, confirm the exact permit and setback requirements for your specific parcel with the Plumas County Building Department before construction.