Shed Rules: Antioch vs El Cerrito
How do shed rules rules compare between Antioch, CA and El Cerrito, CA?
El Cerrito has fewer restrictions than Antioch.
Antioch, CA
Contra Costa County
Sheds in Antioch must comply with setback and size requirements. Sheds under 120 square feet and single story may be exempt from building permits but must meet zoning placement rules.
View full Antioch rules →El Cerrito, CA
Contra Costa County
In unincorporated Contra Costa, a detached one-story accessory building used as a tool/storage shed of 120 sq ft or less does not require a building permit. Zoning setbacks still apply—typically 3 feet from side/rear property lines in R-zones—and any shed with electrical or plumbing needs a permit.
View full El Cerrito rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Antioch | El Cerrito |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Exempt | Under 120 sq ft | - |
| Location | Rear or side yard | - |
| Setbacks | Must comply with zoning | - |
| Use | Storage only | - |
| Permit-exempt size | - | 120 sq ft and under 12 ft tall |
| Side/rear setback | - | 3 ft typical residential |
| Electrical/plumbing | - | Triggers permit regardless of size |
| Lot coverage | - | Counts toward 35-40% cap |
| WUI rule | - | Ignition-resistant materials recommended |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Antioch FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in Antioch?
Sheds under 120 square feet generally don't need a building permit but must meet setback requirements.
Where can I place a shed in Antioch?
Sheds must be in rear or side yards with proper setbacks from property lines.
El Cerrito FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 100 sq ft shed with an outlet?
Yes. Any shed with electrical service, regardless of size, needs an electrical permit, and the overall structure must be inspected.
Can I place a shed on the property line?
No. Even permit-exempt sheds must meet the zoning setback—typically at least 3 feet from the side and rear property lines.
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