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

Calaveras County's Zoning Code Section 17.16.030 governs detached accessory structures, expressly including sheds, workshops, barns, gazebos and similar roofed buildings detached from and accessory to a primary building. Sheds must comply with the development standards (height, setback, lot coverage) of the base zoning district in which they sit. The code prohibits using any detached accessory structure as a dwelling unit. Generally a detached accessory structure may only be built on a lot that already has a permitted main use; however, Section 17.16.030.B.1 allows a lot with no main use to have one structure up to 120 square feet plus one structure up to 576 square feet, provided neither is plumbed or electrified. For setbacks, Section 17.16.080.A.1.j provides a specific exemption: one shed less than 120 square feet in size and less than 12 feet in height, and not requiring a building permit, may encroach within the required interior side and rear setback areas. Larger or taller sheds, or those that are plumbed or wired, must meet the full setback and development standards of the zone. Under California Building Code thresholds adopted in Title 15, detached accessory structures of 120 square feet or less generally do not require a building permit, but zoning, fire-safe and stream-setback rules still apply. New development must also maintain the County's 50-foot stream and wetland setback (Section 17.16.080.B).