Reedley, CA Accessory Structures: Shed Rules (2026)

Reedley follows the 2022 California Residential Code for accessory structures, as adopted under RMC Section 9-1-1, which establishes the building standards for all construction within city limits. Detached accessory buildings not exceeding 120 square feet in floor area and 10 feet in height are generally exempt from building permit requirements under the California Residential Code, provided they meet several conditions. The structure must be used for storage purposes only and not for habitation, home occupation, or any use requiring electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems. If a property owner wants to add electrical wiring for lighting or outlets in an otherwise exempt shed, an electrical permit is required. Sheds exceeding 120 square feet in floor area require a building permit from the Reedley Building Division, with plans showing the structure dimensions, materials, location on the lot, and distance from property lines. All sheds, regardless of size, must comply with zoning setback requirements for the applicable residential district as established in Reedley Municipal Code Title 10. Accessory structures must generally be located in the rear yard or side yard and may not be placed in the required front yard setback area. Minimum setbacks from rear and side property lines vary by zone and should be confirmed with the Building Division before construction begins. Sheds must not exceed the maximum lot coverage percentage for the zone, which includes the footprint of all structures on the property including the primary dwelling, garage, and any other accessory buildings. The total area of all structures cannot cause the lot coverage to exceed the zone maximum. Metal prefabricated sheds, wood-framed sheds, and vinyl storage buildings are all subject to the same building and zoning standards. Sheds located within 3 feet of a property line may need to meet fire-resistive construction requirements, including one-hour fire-rated wall assemblies on the side facing the property line. Sheds must be anchored to resist wind and seismic loads consistent with the California Building Code. Structures attached to the primary dwelling by a roof, wall, or breezeway are not considered detached accessory buildings and instead require standard building permits as dwelling additions. The Building Division strongly recommends that property owners contact the department at (559) 637-4200 before beginning any shed construction to verify applicable setbacks, lot coverage calculations, and permit requirements for their specific parcel and zone.