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

Article XXXIX governs accessory structures, defined as buildings that are not the main building and where the principal use of the land does not occur, excluding accessory dwelling units. Section 30.39.30 sets the residential-zone rules a Gilroy shed, detached garage or similar structure must meet. Subsection (a) requires at least three feet of separation from any side or rear property line, unless the structure is limited to seven feet in height and incorporates measures to keep runoff off neighboring lots. Subsection (b) bars any accessory structure from encroaching into the required front yard area or the street-side setback area of a corner lot.

No more than two accessory structures are allowed per lot under subsection (c). Subsection (d) caps combined accessory structure coverage at thirty percent of the lot area, and requires any single structure over six hundred square feet to be built with the same materials, colors and architectural style as the main residential building. Height is capped at twelve feet and one story under subsection (i); a taller structure, or a two-story accessory structure, needs planning commission approval through an architectural and site review application. Community Development's planning division reviews shed and accessory building permit applications against these standards before issuing a building permit for a residential lot in Gilroy.