San Bernardino County, CA Accessory Structures: Shed Rules (2026)

Storage sheds are regulated as residential accessory structures under Development Code Chapter 84.01. Section 84.01.050(e) provides that parcels one acre or less in size are limited to only one detached storage structure that exceeds 120 square feet, and that structure may not exceed 1,000 square feet. Except in the Mountain Region, a detached storage structure may not extend in front of the primary structure where the home faces a right-of-way. Under Section 84.01.020(a), accessory structures are generally subject to the same setback and development regulations as the primary structure on the parcel, and Section 84.01.020(b) requires that an accessory structure exist only in conjunction with a legally established primary use under common ownership; a residence may not be enclosed within an accessory structure. The combined footprint of accessory and primary structures cannot exceed the maximum site coverage allowed by the underlying land use zoning district (Section 84.01.020(e)). In the Single Residential (RS) and Multiple Residential (RM) districts, the appearance of an accessory structure must be compatible with the primary structure and surrounding neighborhood (Section 84.01.050(k)). A building permit is generally required for larger structures; building setbacks must be maintained whether or not a permit is required. Always confirm specific zoning-district setbacks and any Fire Safety Overlay requirements with Land Use Services before building.