Ventura, CA Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)

2, Building Item 1 to define exactly when a detached shed can go up without a building permit. The structure must be a single, one-story accessory building used as a tool shed, light storage shed, playhouse or similar use, with a floor area no greater than 120 square feet and a maximum height of 8'6" measured from grade, where grade is defined as the lowest point within 5'0" of the structure's perimeter. It must sit on a residential lot classified R-3 occupancy, must not include electrical, plumbing or mechanical equipment, and must not obstruct or divert rainwater runoff onto a neighboring property.

Only one exempt shed is allowed per parcel, it must be placed in the rear yard only, kept at least 5'0" from any existing building, and its eaves cannot project more than 16 inches or extend past the property line. 3 before the permit issues. Fees follow the City's current User Fee resolution, and the Building Official may refund up to 80 percent of a paid permit fee if no work was ever performed, but only on a written application filed within 180 days of payment.

Decisions of the Building Official can be appealed to the Local/Housing Appeals Board, which under Section 113 is the City Council itself, on a form filed within 10 days of the notice.