Shed permit rules in Union City, CA — also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations — set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Union City regulates detached accessory structures such as storage sheds under UCMC Chapter 18.32. Sheds under 120 square feet with no utilities need no permit, while larger sheds require building or planning permits, and all must meet setback and height limits.
Under Chapter 18.32 (Residential Districts), a detached shed under 120 square feet with no electrical, water, or sewer service needs no permit. Sheds over 120 but under 450 square feet without water or sewer require a building permit; those over 450 square feet or with utilities require both planning and building permits. Sheds must sit on the rear half of the lot, no closer than four feet to a side or rear property line and five feet from other structures. Height is limited to one story and 12 feet, up to 14 feet to match the main roof pitch if the roof midpoint stays at 12 feet. Coverage may not exceed 30 percent of the rear yard.
Placing or enlarging a shed without a required permit, or violating setback, height, or coverage limits, can result in code-enforcement notices and orders to relocate, modify, or remove the structure.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Alameda County.
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