Shed permit rules in Temecula, CA — also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations — set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Sheds 120 sq ft or smaller and under 12 feet tall in Temecula generally do not require a building permit but must meet zoning setbacks (typically 5 ft from rear/side property lines). Sheds with electrical or plumbing always need permits. HOA architectural review usually applies.
Per the 2022 California Building Code §105.2 as adopted by Temecula, one-story detached accessory structures used as tool/storage sheds, playhouses, and similar are exempt from a building permit if the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet. Above 120 sq ft, a building permit is required and full structural/foundation/wind-load engineering applies. Even permit-exempt sheds must comply with: TMC §17.06 zoning standards including setbacks (typically 5 feet from rear and side property lines in R-1 zones, varies by zone), maximum height (often 10-12 feet for non-permit sheds), rear-yard coverage limits (often 30-40% of rear yard), and a maximum of one or two accessory structures depending on lot size. Any electrical wiring, plumbing, or mechanical (gas) requires separate permits regardless of shed size. Sheds cannot be used as habitable space, sleeping quarters, or rental units — that triggers ADU rules. Sheds in front yards or street-side yards are generally prohibited. Most Temecula HOAs (Vail Ranch, Redhawk, Paloma del Sol, Roripaugh Ranch, Harveston, Wolf Creek) require architectural committee approval before installation, with rules on color, material, height, and screening from neighbors. WUI fire-resistant materials are encouraged in hillside areas. Temporary 'pop-up' canopies and portable storage containers (PODs) have separate temporary use rules.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Temecula code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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