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

Siskiyou County's zoning regulations are codified in Title 10, Chapter 6 of the county code, with district uses and development standards beginning at Article 37, per the county Planning Division. Detached residential accessory structures such as sheds, barns, and workshops are governed by the use and setback standards of the underlying zoning district. The county code does not publish a special small-shed exemption; instead, the statewide California Building Code (Title 24, Part 2, Section 105.2) controls building-permit thresholds. Under CBC 105.2, a building permit is not required for a one-story detached accessory structure used as a tool or storage shed when the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet, the structure is not used for habitation, and it has no electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems. A shed larger than 120 square feet, or any shed with utilities, requires a building permit from Siskiyou County Building. Regardless of permit status, every accessory structure must still meet the setbacks of its zoning district. On rural and forest parcels, owners should also confirm wildfire defensible-space and fire-safe access requirements, which can affect where outbuildings may be placed. For parcel-specific standards, the Planning Division asks owners to submit a Property Information Inquiry or email planning@co.siskiyou.ca.us.