What is the largest shed without a permit in California?

Author: Khalid Skiles  |  Last update: Saturday, October 4, 2025

One-story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet, do not require a Building Permit (per California Building Code 105.2 "Work Exempt from Permit").

Do I need a permit for a 10x12 shed in California?

Per the California Residential Code detached accessory structure not exceeding 120 square feet does not require a building permit if there is no plumbing, electrical, and or mechanical equipment. Please note, Sheds and/or Structures under 120 square feet do require a Planning Permit.

How tall can a shed be without a permit in California?

Other than storm shelters, one-story detached accessory structures, provide that the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet and a maximum height of 12 feet to the ridge.

What is the biggest size shed without planning permission?

After putting it to the test in various backyards and gardens, we've found that the largest shed without permit is around 120 square feet. This size limit seems to be a sweet spot for many local authorities, allowing homeowners to add a functional structure without overstepping regulatory boundaries.

What happens if you get caught building a shed without a permit?

If you don't get a permit and get caught, you'll get a notice to stop and/or remove the structure. Fines are likely. Insurance company may be very unhappy with you.

What is the biggest size shed without planning permission?

Do you need a permit to pour concrete in your backyard in California?

In California, platforms, walkways, and driveways not exceeding 30 inches above grade and not over any basement or story below do not require a building permit. However, for larger or structural projects, permits and a licensed contractor are required.

How big is a 200 sq foot shed?

Built for the backyard enthusiast, a 10×20 200 sq ft shed is the perfect size for storing all of your lawn and garden equipment. It's also big enough to accommodate a workbench or a small seating area, making it the ideal space for tinkering on projects or taking a break from the sun.

What can a homeowner do without a permit in California?

What can a Homeowner do without a Permit in California?
  • Repainting your house.
  • Adding kitchen cabinets with no changes to the layout of the kitchen.
  • Replacing certain kitchen appliances.
  • Repaving your driveway or external paths.
  • Installing floor coverings, such as carpets, tiles, or laminate flooring.

How big is a 120 sq ft shed?

10 ft. W x 12 ft.

How far does a shed have to be from the fence in California?

Any shed under 10 feet in height from natural ground to highest point may have a side and rear setback of 5 feet. Any shed higher than 10 feet in height needs to follow zone setbacks. Sheds are not allowed in front setback.

How many square feet can you build in California without a permit?

When do I apply for a Building and Safety Permit? PERMITS AND INSPECTIONS ARE REQUIRED FOR THE FOLLOWING: New Attached or Detached Buildings and Structures (Residential and Non-Residential) with a floor area greater than 120 square feet*

How many square feet is a 10x12 shed?

When considering how many square feet is a 10x12 shed, the answer seems straightforward: 120 square feet.

How close to the property line can I put a shed?

Typically, a storage shed must be located a minimum distance of 5 feet from the property line. If you live on a corner lot or if your property is subject to easements, the minimum distance could change.

What is exempt from a building code permit in California?

Projects that DO NOT need a building permit are simple surface (cosmetic) projects; minor repairs and replacements; and minor site improvements or small structures.

What is the largest outbuilding without planning permission?

There are some requirements that you need to match regarding size, including the necessity for the outbuilding to occupy no more than 50% of the space around your home. Following this, the maximum size of an outbuilding without planning permission is 15 metres long and 5 ½ metres deep.

What is the average cost to build a 10x12 shed?

A 10×12 shed can cost anywhere from $3,000 – $12,000, depending on what you buy. I know that doesn't give you the range you were hoping for, so let's break it down a bit more from least to most expensive. Tier 1 – A simple 10×12 shed with wood siding and no windows is going to be the tier 1 option.

Is a 12x16 shed too big?

A 12x16 shed gives you a lot of room for storage. A four-wheeler, ATV, riding mower, or similar equipment will fit easily with room to spare. Motorcycles and small vehicles also fit, depending on the design and height of the shed.

How big is a 40x60 shed?

A 40x60 metal building is a solid choice for any property and provides 2,400 square feet of customizable space to satisfy many end uses, including shops, garages, barns, and even modern homes.

What happens if you get caught remodeling without a permit in California?

If you get caught remodeling without a permit in California, you may be issued a stop-work order, requiring all construction to cease immediately. You could face fines, which vary depending on the jurisdiction and the scope of the unpermitted work.

Do I need a permit to put drywall in my garage?

You'll likely need a permit since this project may require soil grading to avoid drainage issues. Repairing your floor may be more cost-efficient than replacing it if grading is necessary. No permit may be required to hang drywall on exposed wooden wall studs in your garage.

Do you need a permit to replace a toilet in California?

A plumbing permit is required when any plumbing, gas or drainage piping work or any fixture or water heating or treatment equipment is installed, altered, repaired, or replaced unless specifically exempted by the California Plumbing Code or by County Ordinance.

Is 12x20 big for a shed?

After accounting for the thickness of the walls, a 12'×20′ shed gives you approximately 220 square feet of interior storage space, which is enough space to house 2-3 lawn care equipment as well as a workbench. A 12×20 shed with a loft would offer a bit of additional overhead storage space.

How many square feet is a 16x32 shed?

A 16×32 shed measures 512 square feet, so you'll likely need a permit for a shed this size.

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