Riverside, CA Permit Requirements: Shed & Outbuilding Permits (2026)

Riverside follows the California Building Code (CBC) as adopted and locally amended in Municipal Code Title 16. CBC Section 105.2 exempts one-story detached accessory structures used as tool or storage sheds from the building permit requirement if the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet. Even exempt sheds must still meet zoning setbacks (typically 3-5 feet from side/rear property lines, farther from front), height limits (usually 10-12 feet), and cannot be placed over easements. Electrical, plumbing, or gas work in the shed requires separate trade permits regardless of size. Sheds larger than 120 sq ft require a full building permit — plans, site plan, structural calculations, and inspections. Pre-manufactured sheds (Tuff Shed, Lifetime plastic) over 120 sq ft still need a permit based on footprint. ADU conversions of sheds are a separate process under Government Code 65852.2. Homeowners should check zoning online before purchasing a large shed, and VHFHSZ properties may face ignition-resistant material requirements under CBC Chapter 7A.