In Santa Clara County, one-story detached accessory structures (sheds) not exceeding 120 square feet do not require a building permit if they have no utilities. Larger sheds require permits. All sheds must comply with zoning setbacks.
Per the California Building Code as adopted by Santa Clara County, one-story detached accessory structures not exceeding 120 square feet are exempt from building permits if they have no electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems. Sheds over 120 square feet require a building permit. All sheds must comply with zoning setbacks — typically 5 feet from rear and side property lines in residential zones. Sheds must be in the rear yard. Maximum height is generally 15 feet. Even exempt sheds must comply with all zoning requirements (setbacks, lot coverage, etc.). In hillside areas, additional grading and drainage requirements may apply.
Unpermitted sheds may be cited through code enforcement requiring retroactive permits or removal. Building without a permit is listed as a common violation by the county.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Santa Clara County.
See how Palo Alto's shed & outbuilding permits rules stack up against other locations.
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