Solano County, CA Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)
Shed permit rules in Solano County, CA, also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations, set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Key Facts
- Permit-free shed size
- 120 sq ft or less, one story
- Utilities condition
- No electrical, mechanical, or plumbing
- Setback from property lines
- Generally at least 10 feet
- Separation from dwelling
- 10 feet (30 feet in W District)
- Code basis
- CBC 105.2 / County Code Ch. 28
Summary
In unincorporated Solano County, a one-story detached storage or tool shed of 120 square feet or less with no utilities is exempt from a building permit. Sheds must still meet zoning setbacks - generally at least 10 feet from property lines and 10 feet from the main dwelling.
One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and other similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet, and the structure has no utilities (electrical, mechanical, plumbing).
Full Breakdown
2). A building permit is not required for 'one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and other similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet, and the structure has no utilities' (no electrical, mechanical, or plumbing service). The County notes such structures may still be regulated under fire-related Section 710A in wildland areas. A permit exemption does not waive zoning compliance: detached residential accessory buildings must observe the setback and placement rules in Chapter 28, which generally require accessory structures to sit at least 10 feet from any property line unless the zoning district requires more, and to maintain at least 10 feet of separation from the main building (30 feet in the W - Watershed - District).
Sheds larger than 120 square feet, or any shed with electrical or plumbing service, require a building permit. For exact setbacks tied to your specific zoning district, the Planning Division (707-784-6765) is the authority. Because rules vary by parcel and zone, verify before you build.
Violations & Fines
Installing a shed over 120 square feet without a permit, adding utilities to an exempt shed without permits, or placing any shed inside required setbacks can result in code-compliance action, corrections, or removal orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a shed in unincorporated Solano County?
Where can I place my shed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Solano County
How Solano County compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·California rules heatmap·Compare Solano County to another location·View the California accessory structures overview
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