Indio, CA Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)
Shed permit rules in Indio, 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
- Governing code
- UDC § 3.02.04
- Small shed (<80 sf, <6 ft)
- 3 ft setback, 6 ft max height
- Large structure (>80 sf, >14 ft)
- 5 ft setback, 20 ft max height
- Indoor cooking facilities
- prohibited
Summary
Indio sets tiered setback and height limits for detached sheds and accessory buildings based on size, from 6 feet for small structures up to 20 feet for larger ones.
Accessory structures shall not contain indoor cooking facilities (combination of a sink, cooking apparatus, and refrigeration appliance) and shall not be designed for full-time living, guest accommodation (i.e., guesthouses), or rental purposes (see Chapter 4.02 (Accessory Dwelling Units). Pool houses that conform to the requirements of this Chapter are permitted. Accessory structures may have plumbing for a washer, dryer, toilet, shower, and/or utility sink.
3. Separation Between Structures.Minimum distance between structures shall be provided in accordance with the regulations set forth in Article 2 (Zone Regulations) for each zone.
4. Lot Coverage.The total lot coverage of the main dwelling, any accessory dwelling unit, and/or any accessory structures shall not exceed the maximum lot coverage as established by the applicable zone.
5. Setbacks and Heights.Accessory structures shall meet the setback and height standards provided in Table 3.02.04-1. Accessory Structure Setbacks and Height Limits). TABLE 3.02.04-1: Accessory Structure Setbacks and Height Limits
Accessory Structure Minimum Setback from Property Line1 Maximum Height1 Front Street Side Rear/Interior Side Detached garage Same as for primary structure Same as for primary structure 3 ft 14 ft Structure/Building, < 80 sf and < 6 ft tall Same as for primary structure Same as for primary structure 3 ft 6 ft Structure/Building, < 80 sf and > 6 ft tall Same as for primary structure
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4796010; v13 updated 2026-02-04; through 02-04-2026).
Full Breakdown
In Indio, California, detached accessory structures like sheds, workshops, and gazebos must relate to a permitted main building on the same lot and cannot include indoor cooking facilities or serve as living or rental space. Under Table 3.02.04-1, a structure under 80 square feet and under 6 feet tall needs only a 3-foot rear/interior side setback and caps at 6 feet in height; front and street-side setbacks always match the primary structure. A structure over 80 square feet and over 14 feet tall requires a 5-foot rear/interior setback and caps at 20 feet. Total lot coverage from the main dwelling plus all accessory structures cannot exceed the zone's maximum lot coverage.
Violations & Fines
Building an accessory structure that exceeds the height or lot-coverage limit, or encroaches inside the minimum setback, can require removal, relocation, or a variance application before it can remain.
Frequently Asked Questions
How close to my property line can a shed go in Indio?
Can I live in a backyard shed in Indio?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Indio
How Indio compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·California rules heatmap·Compare Indio to another location·View the California accessory structures overview
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