Shed Rules: Hesperia vs San Bernardino
How do shed rules rules compare between Hesperia, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
San Bernardino has fewer restrictions than Hesperia.
Hesperia, CA
San Bernardino County
Hesperia Municipal Code §16.20.390 caps total enclosed accessory buildings (sheds, workshops) at 1,000 sq ft plus 7.5% of net lot area in residential zones. Sheds count as 'accessory buildings' under §16.08.005 when at least 50% enclosed. Building permits are required for sheds over 120 sq ft per the California Building Code.
View full Hesperia rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
Sheds up to 120 sq ft in San Bernardino do not require a building permit under the California Residential Code, but must meet zoning setbacks, height limits, and fire clearance rules.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hesperia | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Threshold | Over 120 sq ft (CBC); zoning rules apply at any size | - |
| Max Aggregate Area | 1,000 sq ft + 7.5% of net lot area (§16.20.390) | - |
| Max Height | 35 ft / 2.5 stories; 20 ft within 30 ft of side/rear (§16.20.410) | - |
| Metal Sheds | A, RR, R1-18,000 zones only; rear-yard placement (§16.20.420) | - |
| Code Authority | Hesperia MC §§16.08.005, 16.20.390, 16.20.410, 16.20.420 | - |
| Permit exemption | - | Sheds up to 120 sq ft exempt under CRC R105.2 |
| Setbacks | - | Typically 5 ft from side and rear property lines |
| Height | - | Generally 12 to 15 ft maximum in residential zones |
| Utilities | - | Any electrical, plumbing, or gas needs a separate permit |
| Fire zones | - | Chapter 7A materials may apply in VHFHSZ |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Hesperia FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in Hesperia?
California Building Code exempts utility sheds 120 sq ft or smaller from a building permit, but Hesperia zoning setbacks, height limits, and aggregate area caps under §16.20.390 still apply. Anything over 120 sq ft needs a building permit from the Building & Safety Division.
Can I put a metal shed in my backyard in Hesperia?
Only if your property is in the A (Agricultural), RR (Rural Residential), or R1-18,000 zone district. Even then, metal accessory buildings must be placed between the rear of the primary residence and the rear property line (§16.20.420).
San Bernardino FAQ
Do I need a permit for a small backyard shed?
Not if it is one story, 120 sq ft or less, and has no electricity, plumbing, or gas; zoning setbacks still apply.
How close to the fence can I put my shed?
Typically no closer than 5 ft from side and rear property lines; check the San Bernardino Development Code for your exact zone.
Is a permit needed for a shed with electricity?
Yes. Electrical connections always require a separate electrical permit and inspection regardless of the 120 sq ft exemption.
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