Fresno, CA Accessory Structures: Shed Rules (2026)

The City of Fresno exempts small sheds from building permits under the California Residential Code as administered by Building and Safety Services: one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses do not require a permit if the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet, height is limited to 12 feet, and the structure is located a minimum of 3 feet from adjacent property lines (and is adequately anchored against wind and earthquake forces, with pressure-treated wood where within 1 inch of soil or embedded in concrete). Zoning placement is governed by Fresno Municipal Code (Citywide Development Code) Section 15-2004, Accessory Buildings and Structures, which applies to all new structures over 7 feet in height including sheds, garages, gazebos, greenhouses, and covered patios. In Single-Family districts a shed may not occupy a required front yard or street-side setback; if located closer than 6 feet from the main building it must be set back at least 5 feet from interior side and rear property lines, but if located 6 feet or more from the main building it may be placed within 3 feet of an interior or rear property line (and must comply with the Building Code). On parcels 10,000 sq ft or less, accessory structures may be no greater than 12 feet high; on larger parcels, structures at least 10 feet from all property lines may reach 16 feet. Sheds exceeding 120 sq ft require a building permit.