Shed permit rules in Ventura, CA — also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations — set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Ventura exempts a single-story detached storage shed, playhouse or similar use from building permit if floor area is 120 sq ft or less and height is 8'6" or less, with no electrical, plumbing or mechanical work. Larger sheds require a building permit and must meet SBMC Title 24 zoning setbacks and California Building Code.
Per the City of Ventura Community Development residential permit guide (SBMC Title 24 / 2022 CBC Appendix as adopted), one single-story detached accessory structure used as a tool/light storage shed, playhouse or similar use is exempt from a building permit when (a) projected floor area is 120 sq ft or less, (b) maximum height is 8'6" measured from grade, and (c) no electrical, plumbing or mechanical equipment is installed. Only one detached shed is allowed per parcel and it must be located in the rear yard at least 5 feet from any existing building. Sheds exceeding either threshold (over 120 sq ft or over 8'6" tall) require a building permit and must comply with zoning setbacks in SBMC Division 24 and structural requirements under California Building Code Title 24. Pierpont and Ventura Keys parcels have additional Planning review and easement requirements per recorded Title Reports.
Building a shed over 120 sq ft or over 8'6" without a permit can result in a stop-work order, after-the-fact permit fees (typically double), and an order to remove or alter the structure to comply with setbacks and code.
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