San Diego, CA Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)
Shed permit rules in San Diego, CA, also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations, set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Key Facts
- Governing section
- SDMC §129.0203(a)(1)
- Exempt size
- 120 sq ft roof area or less
- Story limit
- One-story, ground-supported
- Over the limit
- Full Building Permit required
Summary
A detached one-story storage shed or playhouse in San Diego skips the Building Permit if its roof area is 120 square feet or less and it isn't used for a separately regulated use.
A Building Permit is not required for the following structures and activities, except when the development would involve alterations, repairs, or improvements to a historical resource as described in Section 143.0220; when development on a premises containing environmentally sensitive lands requires a development permit in accordance with Section 143.0110; or when a building is constructed with unreinforced masonry bearing walls or exterior wall parapets:
(1) One-story detached accessory buildings supported on the ground and used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses provided the projected roof area is 120 square feet or less and the structure will not be utilized for any separately regulated use subject to Land Development Code Chapter 14, Article 1.
(2) Fences, other than swimming pool barriers, that are 7 feet in height or less.
(3) Oil derricks.
(4) Non-fixed and movable fixtures; cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches in height.
Full Breakdown
SDMC §129.0203(a)(1) exempts one-story detached accessory buildings supported on the ground and used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses from the Building Permit requirement, but only if the projected roof area is 120 square feet or less and the structure won't house any separately regulated use under Chapter 14, Article 1. The exemption doesn't apply if the shed involves work to a historical resource, sits on environmentally sensitive lands requiring a development permit, or is built with unreinforced masonry walls. A shed over 120 square feet needs a full Building Permit under §129.0202.
Violations & Fines
Building a shed over 120 square feet, or one used for a separately regulated use, without a Building Permit can trigger stop-work orders and after-the-fact permit fees from the Building Official.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build any size shed without a permit?
Does the shed exemption apply on environmentally sensitive land?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Diego
How San Diego compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·California rules heatmap·Compare San Diego to another location·View the California accessory structures overview
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Shed & Carport Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Diego County handle shed & carport rules.