Shed Rules: El Cerrito vs San Ramon
How do shed rules rules compare between El Cerrito, CA and San Ramon, CA?
El Cerrito has fewer restrictions than San Ramon.
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 →San Ramon, CA
Contra Costa County
Accessory structures limited to 12 ft height in most residential zones (HR, RE-B, RS, RM, RMH, RH, RVH) and 16 ft in RC, RR, and RE-A zones. Structures in front setback limited to 3 ft plus 18 inches for decorative features/lighting.
View full San Ramon rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cerrito | San Ramon |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Height (Most Zones) | - | 12 ft max |
| Height (Rural Zones) | - | 16 ft max |
| Front Setback | - | 3 ft max |
| Decorative | - | +18 inches above 3 ft allowed |
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.
San Ramon FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in San Ramon?
Accessory structures limited to 12 ft height in most residential zones (HR, RE-B, RS, RM, RMH, RH, RVH) and 16 ft in RC, RR, and RE-A zones. Structures in front setback limited to 3 ft plus 18 inches for decorative features/lighting.
How big can a shed be without a permit in San Ramon?
Height (Most Zones): 12 ft max. Height (Rural Zones): 16 ft max. Front Setback: 3 ft max. Decorative: +18 inches above 3 ft allowed.
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