Santa Monica, CA Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)
Shed permit rules in Santa Monica, 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
- Maximum height (1-story shed)
- 14 feet
- Location requirement
- Rear half of parcel only
- Rear setback minimum
- 5 feet from rear property line
- Alley setback
- 15 feet from centerline of rear alley
- Max height (2-story accessory building)
- 24 feet / 2 stories
- Max floor area (2-story)
- 650 sq ft total; 250 sq ft max on second floor
Summary
Storage sheds and other detached accessory buildings must be placed on the rear half of the lot, set back at least 5 feet from the rear property line, and are limited to 14 feet or one story unless the stricter two-story standards are met.
C. Accessory Buildings and Structures up to 14 Feet in Residential Districts. Accessory buildings and structures not more than 14 feet or one story in height shall conform to the following standards: 1. Location. a. Accessory buildings shall be located on the rear half of the parcel and shall not extend into the minimum side yard setback except as authorized pursuant to subsections (b) and (c) below. b. Accessory buildings no more than 14 feet in height may be located in the rear setback but shall be located at least 5 feet from the rear parcel line. A garage or garage portion of such an accessory building may extend up to one interior side parcel line within the rear 35 feet of a parcel. c. A garage or garage portion of an accessory building may extend to the rear parcel line abutting an alley, provided that vehicle access is not taken from the alley. Where vehicle access is taken from an alley, garages shall be set back at least 5 feet from the rear parcel line abutting said alley. d. Accessory buildings may be located in the rear setback and shall be located at least 15 feet from the centerline of a rear alley.
Full Breakdown
One-story sheds (14 feet or less) must sit on the rear half of the parcel and stay at least 5 feet from the rear lot line; they may extend into the rear setback area but must be at least 15 feet from the centerline of a rear alley. Structures taller than 14 feet or over one story are capped at 24 feet and 2 stories, with a maximum total floor area of 650 sq ft and no more than 250 sq ft on the second floor. Accessory structures may not exceed 14 feet at all unless the two-story standards apply. Sheds may not contain kitchens and may not be rented unless approved as an ADU.
Violations & Fines
Unpermitted or noncompliant accessory structures are subject to stop-work orders, required removal or alteration to comply, and general Zoning Ordinance enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a storage shed in my front yard?
How close to my back fence can my shed be?
Can I add a bathroom to my shed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Monica
How Santa Monica compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Monica to another location·View the California accessory structures overview
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Shed & Carport Rules in Nearby Cities
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