San Francisco requires permits for most accessory structures including sheds. The 120 sq ft exemption common in other cities is more limited in SF. DBI and Planning review may both be required. Permit fees vary by valuation.
San Francisco is stricter than most cities regarding shed permits. While California Building Code provides a general exemption for accessory structures under 120 sq ft, San Francisco's additional Planning Code requirements mean most sheds require at least a planning review. Sheds must comply with rear yard, side yard, and lot coverage requirements. In many SF residential zones, lot coverage is already at or near maximum, making additional structures challenging. Sheds in the buildable area may require a building permit from DBI even if under 120 sq ft. All sheds with electrical or plumbing connections require permits. Pre-fabricated sheds still must comply with zoning. The permitting process in SF is notoriously complex — even simple projects often require multiple department reviews.
Unpermitted structures: NOV from DBI, penalties up to 9x permit fee. May be required to remove.
San Francisco, CA
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See how San Francisco's shed & outbuilding permits rules stack up against other locations.
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