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

Few Restrictions

Shed permit rules in Placer County, CA — also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations — set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.

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Key Facts

Permit Threshold: ≤120 sq ft, ≤12 ft height (no permit)
Authority: CBC §105.2; PCC Ch. 15; PCC 17.56.020
Utilities: Electrical/plumbing permits required
Zoning Setbacks: Always apply, even when exempt

City-specific rules exist: Roseville has its own shed rules rules that differ from Placer County's county-level regulations. If you live in Roseville, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Under California Building Code §105.2 (adopted by Placer County Code Chapter 15) and Placer County Code 17.56.020, one-story detached storage sheds, playhouses, and similar accessory structures up to 120 sq ft and 12 feet in height do not require a building permit, but must still meet zoning setbacks. Electrical or plumbing work requires permits.

Full Breakdown

Placer County adopts the California Building Code in Chapter 15 of the Placer County Code. CBC §105.2 (Work Exempt from Permit) exempts one-story detached accessory buildings used as tool/storage sheds and similar uses that do not exceed 120 sq ft in floor area, provided the structure also meets Placer County Zoning Ordinance height (12 ft max measured under the Zoning Ordinance) and setback requirements. If the shed contains electrical wiring or plumbing, separate electrical and/or plumbing permits are required. Sheds over 120 sq ft, or with utilities, require a full building permit and must comply with the CBC, including wildland-urban interface provisions in Chapter 7A if the site is in a designated FHSZ. Setbacks for accessory structures vary by zone district under PCC 17.56.020 — contact Placer County Planning Services for the specific setback for your parcel.

Violations & Fines

Building a shed that exceeds the 120 sq ft exemption or includes utilities without a permit is a code violation enforced by Placer County Building Services and Code Compliance. Sheds in setbacks or that exceed allowed lot coverage are zoning violations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a building permit for a backyard shed in unincorporated Placer County?

Not if it is a one-story detached storage shed of 120 sq ft or less and 12 feet or less in height, with no electrical or plumbing. Zoning setbacks still apply.

Does the shed still have to meet setbacks if no permit is needed?

Yes. Zoning setbacks under Placer County Code 17.56.020 apply regardless of whether a building permit is required.

What if my shed has electricity?

Any electrical or plumbing work requires its own permit, even when the structure itself is small enough to be exempt from a building permit.

How does Placer County compare?

See how Placer County's shed rules rules stack up against other locations.

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City-specific rules exist: Roseville has its own shed rules rules that differ from Placer County's county-level regulations. If you live in Roseville, check the city-specific page instead.

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

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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