Santa Barbara County, CA Accessory Structures: Shed Rules (2026)

Detached storage sheds in the unincorporated County are treated as accessory structures under the Land Use & Development Code (LUDC), Chapter 35. The LUDC's general site-planning standards (Article 35.3) govern accessory buildings, which generally must comply with the minimum setback requirements of the applicable zone, with limited encroachments allowed under the code's setback and open-yard provisions. The LUDC glossary defines an accessory structure as a structure located on the same site as the structure or use to which it is accessory, including an accessory building. Because zoning and setback standards vary by zone (residential, agricultural, etc.), the required side, rear, and front setbacks for a shed depend on the parcel's zone designation. Whether a building permit is required is determined by the California Building Code; very small, low one-story tool/storage sheds are commonly exempt from a building permit at the state-code threshold, but they must still meet zoning setbacks and any Coastal Zone permit requirements. In the Coastal Zone, even a permit-exempt shed may require review under the certified Local Coastal Program. Confirm the exact setback and permit thresholds for your parcel with Santa Barbara County Planning & Development before building.