Shed Rules: Monterey vs Salinas
How do shed rules rules compare between Monterey, CA and Salinas, CA?
Monterey and Salinas have similar restriction levels.
Monterey, CA
Monterey County
A building permit is not required for a one-story detached tool or storage shed accessory to a single-family or two-family dwelling if the floor area does not exceed 240 sq ft and the shed has no electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work. Zoning setbacks and design review still apply.
View full Monterey rules →Salinas, CA
Monterey County
Salinas allows small sheds without permits (typically under 120 sq ft). Larger structures require building permits and must meet setback requirements.
View full Salinas rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Monterey | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Exemption | ≤240 sq ft, no utilities | - |
| Building Code Authority | MCC § 18.02 (adopts CBC) | - |
| Zoning Authority | MCC Title 21 | - |
| LDR Non-Habitable Side Setback | 6 ft (front ½) / 1 ft (rear ½) (§ 21.14.060) | - |
| LDR Front Setback | 50 ft | - |
| LDR Max Accessory Height | 15 ft | - |
| Alley-Access Setback | 6 ft from alley right-of-way | - |
| No Permit | - | Under 120 sq ft |
| Permit | - | Over 120 sq ft |
| Setbacks | - | 3 to 5 ft from property line |
| Habitation | - | Prohibited |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Monterey FAQ
Do I need a building permit for a backyard shed in unincorporated Monterey County?
Not if the shed is a one-story detached accessory structure 240 sq ft or smaller with no electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work. Larger sheds or those with utilities require a Title 18 building permit.
Even without a building permit, do zoning rules apply to my shed?
Yes. Monterey County HCD explicitly states that even when a building permit is not required, Title 21 planning regulations including setbacks and design control still apply.
What is the maximum height for a shed in a Low Density Residential zone?
Fifteen (15) feet for habitable or non-habitable accessory structures per Monterey County Code § 21.14.060.
Salinas FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed?
Sheds under 120 sq ft typically don’t need a permit, but must still meet setback requirements.
Can I put electrical in my shed?
Electrical connections require a separate electrical permit regardless of shed size.
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