Pleasanton, CA Accessory Structures: Shed Rules (2026)

Detached sheds in Pleasanton are governed by PMC Section 18.84.160 (Accessory structures - Location and yards). In an R (residential) district, Class I and Class II accessory structures may be located in a required rear yard or required interior side yard within 35 feet of the rear lot line, provided distances to lot lines are not less than those prescribed in Section 18.84.010, except that Class II accessory structures may be built to the property line (but not attached to the fence). No accessory structure may be placed in a front yard, or in the area between the front yard and the front of the main structure unless adequately screened from street view as determined by the zoning administrator. Accessory structures in required side or rear yards must keep the distance from the main structure or other accessory structures prescribed in Section 18.84.100. In the higher-density RM-2,500, RM-2,000, and RM-1,500 districts, structures other than garages or carports may cover no more than 500 sq ft or 10 percent of the required rear yard, whichever is greater. Under the California Building Code as adopted by Pleasanton, one-story detached accessory buildings such as tool and storage sheds are generally exempt from a building permit if the floor area does not exceed 120 sq ft, though zoning placement rules still apply. Homeowners should confirm thresholds with the Building and Safety Division and check any planned-unit-development (PUD) conditions.