Shed permit rules in San Diego 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.
Small accessory structures (sheds) under 120 sq ft and one story do not require a building permit in unincorporated San Diego County per County Code Section 91.1.105.2. Larger structures need permits. All sheds must comply with zoning setback requirements.
County Code Section 91.1.105.2 exempts one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses from building permit requirements, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 sq ft. Structures over 120 sq ft require building permits. All accessory structures, regardless of size, must comply with the zoning ordinance setback requirements for the applicable zone. In wildfire zones, detached structures must meet fire-resistant construction standards and defensible space requirements. Sheds cannot be used as habitable space (living, sleeping, cooking) without proper permits and code compliance. Height limits for accessory structures vary by zone.
Unpermitted structures over 120 sq ft may be cited by Code Compliance. Using sheds as habitable space without permits is a serious violation.
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See how San Diego County's shed rules rules stack up against other locations.
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