El Monte, CA Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)

020 sets the citywide standard for accessory buildings and structures in residential zones. Height is capped at one story and 16 feet (subsection A). The combined floor area of all accessory buildings on a property cannot exceed 800 square feet; if the property has more than one detached single-family dwelling, each dwelling is limited to 600 square feet of accessory building area (subsection B). That roofed area still counts toward the lot's overall maximum lot coverage and floor area ratio under the underlying zoning district (subsection C).

Placement is restricted too: an accessory structure cannot sit closer to the front lot line than 50 percent of the lot's depth, or 50 feet, whichever is less, and it cannot be located within a front yard or street side yard setback at all (subsection D). The minimum interior side and rear yard setback is 4 feet, though corner lots must meet the underlying zoning district's standard setback instead (subsection E). Architecturally, the shed or accessory building must match the primary dwelling's style, materials, colors, finishes, roof form, and windows and doors, though this design match does not apply to animal enclosures, greenhouses, or conservatories (subsection F).

If a property owner plumbs the structure for a bathroom, shower, or bathtub, the city requires a recorded covenant promising the structure will not be converted into an ADU without first obtaining permits and paying fees (subsection G). 12 (subsection H).