Shed Rules: Mountain View vs Sunnyvale
How do shed rules rules compare between Mountain View, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
Mountain View and Sunnyvale have similar restriction levels.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Sheds under 120 square feet do not require a building permit in Mountain View but must meet zoning setbacks and height limits. Larger sheds need a permit.
View full Mountain View rules →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Sunnyvale allows backyard sheds up to 120 square feet without a building permit under Municipal Code Chapter 19.38. Sheds must meet setbacks and cannot be used as living space or connected to utilities.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Permit exempt | Under 120 sq ft | - |
| Typical setback | 3 ft small, 5 ft larger | - |
| Height | Accessory limit | - |
| Front yard | Not allowed | - |
| Electrical | Permit required | - |
| Permit-free size | - | Up to 120 square feet |
| Side setback | - | 3 feet typical |
| Height limit | - | 10 feet |
| Utilities | - | No permanent hookups without permit |
| Habitable use | - | Prohibited |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Can I put a 10 by 12 shed next to my fence?
A 120 sq ft shed is permit exempt but still needs at least a 3-foot setback from the property line and cannot be in an easement.
Do I need a permit for a wired shed?
Yes. Any electrical service to a shed requires an electrical permit regardless of the shed size exemption.
Sunnyvale FAQ
Can I use my shed as a home office?
A shed under 120 square feet without permits cannot be habitable. For an office structure consider a permitted ADU or JADU.
Do I need setbacks from the house itself?
Yes, typically 6 feet of separation from the main dwelling unless the shed is built to wall construction standards.
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