Shed Rules: El Cerrito vs Martinez
How do shed rules rules compare between El Cerrito, CA and Martinez, CA?
El Cerrito has fewer restrictions than Martinez.
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 →Martinez, CA
Contra Costa County
Accessory structures in Martinez require building permits unless very small, non-habitable, and under ~120 sq ft with no utilities. Structures must comply with setback requirements (typically 5 ft from side/rear property lines in residential zones). Maximum height is governed by Title 22 zoning code.
View full Martinez rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cerrito | Martinez |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Permit Required | - | Yes for most sheds; ~120 sq ft threshold for exemption |
| Setbacks | - | Typically 5 ft from side/rear property lines |
| Height Limit | - | Per Title 22 Zoning Code |
| Design | - | Should complement primary home architecture |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Martinez FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in Martinez?
Accessory structures in Martinez require building permits unless very small, non-habitable, and under ~120 sq ft with no utilities. Structures must comply with setback requirements (typically 5 ft from side/rear property lines in residential zones). Maximum height is governed by Title 22 zoning...
How big can a shed be without a permit in Martinez?
Permit Required: Yes for most sheds; ~120 sq ft threshold for exemption. Setbacks: Typically 5 ft from side/rear property lines. Height Limit: Per Title 22 Zoning Code. Design: Should complement primary home architecture.
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