Shed Rules: Ontario vs San Bernardino
How do shed rules rules compare between Ontario, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Ontario and San Bernardino have similar restriction levels.
Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario follows CRC Section R105.2, exempting one-story detached sheds under 120 sq ft from a building permit. Sheds must still meet zoning setbacks, height limits, and trade permits for electrical.
View full Ontario 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 | Ontario | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Permit trigger | Over 120 square feet | - |
| State code | CRC R105.2 exemption | - |
| Setbacks | Typically 3-5 ft rear/side | Typically 5 ft from side and rear property lines |
| Electrical/plumbing | Trade permit required | - |
| Coverage | Rear-yard cap, often 30 percent | - |
| Permit exemption | - | Sheds up to 120 sq ft exempt under CRC R105.2 |
| 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.
Ontario FAQ
Can I put a 10 by 12 shed in my Ontario backyard without a permit?
A 10 by 12 shed is exactly 120 square feet, which is at the exemption line. Going one foot larger triggers a permit. Keep it at or under 120 square feet and follow setbacks to avoid the permit.
Does a shed with a light fixture need a permit?
Yes. Even a permit-exempt shed requires a separate electrical permit for any wiring beyond a standard cord drop.
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.
Compare other topics
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