Caldwell, ID Accessory Structures: Shed Rules (2026)

Caldwell regulates sheds and other detached accessory buildings in City Code 10-02-04, 'Accessory Buildings, Structures, and Uses.' In residential zones the square footage of an accessory structure shall not be greater than that of the principal residence unless approved through a special use permit. Setbacks scale with size: a detached accessory building, structure, or use less than 200 square feet has no setback requirement; one that is 200 square feet or greater but under 600 square feet must be located no less than 5 feet from an interior side or rear lot line; and accessory buildings exceeding 600 square feet are permitted in the rear yard with no portion built within the rear or side yard setback otherwise required in section 10-02-03. Height is limited by zoning district: a detached accessory building shall not exceed 22 feet in height in the R-1, R-2, and R-3 districts and shall not exceed 33 feet in height in the RS-1 and RS-2 districts. A building permit from the Building Safety Division is generally required for sheds large enough to fall under the building code; very small sheds may be permit-exempt but still must meet zoning setbacks. Always confirm the exact lot-line measurement and any easement constraints before pouring a foundation, because corner lots and vision-triangle rules can further restrict placement.