Yuba County, CA Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Exempt if
- Free-standing, unattached, 30 in. or less
- Permit needed if
- Attached, serves exit, or over 30 in.
- Permit fee (up to 400 sf)
- $270
- Each additional 100 sf
- $45
- Applies to
- Unincorporated Yuba County only
Summary
Unincorporated Yuba County exempts small, low decks from a building permit, but only if they meet three conditions in § 10.05.410.A.7: free-standing, unattached to any structure, and no more than 30 inches above grade.
Decks accessory to detached one- and two-family dwellings that are free-standing and not attached to any other structure; do not serve the exit door; and are not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade at any point. All decks shall at a minimum meet the requirements as set forth in Section R311.3 of the California Residential Code, Part 2.5.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 6).
Full Breakdown
Section 10.05.410.A.7 exempts a deck accessory to a detached one- or two-family dwelling from the building permit requirement only if it is free-standing and not attached to any other structure, does not serve an exit door, and is not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade at any point. Decks that are attached to the house, serve as an exit landing, or rise above 30 inches need a permit under § 10.05.400(a), and the county's fee schedule prices a deck, patio cover, awning, or carport up to 400 square feet at $270, plus $45 per additional 100 square feet. This exemption and fee apply only in unincorporated Yuba County.
Violations & Fines
Building an attached or elevated deck without a permit is a misdemeanor under § 10.05.720(a): up to $1,000 and six months in county jail, each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a deck without a permit in unincorporated Yuba County?
What does a deck permit cost?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Yuba County
California rules heatmap·Compare Yuba County to another location·View the California building safety overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.