Do you need a permit for a shed in Sacramento, CA?
It depends on size and placement.
Sacramento exempts one-story sheds up to 120 sq ft of floor area.
Inside a design review or preservation district, or on a landmark, the exemption doesn't apply.
Rules last checked by a person on October 19, 2026. Guidance only; confirm with Sacramento before you build.
Check your exact lot
Setbacks depend on your zoning district, and a flood zone can change the permit answer. Enter your address to see both.
Permits a shed can need in Sacramento
| Permit | When it applies |
|---|---|
| Building permit | Sacramento exempts only one-story detached accessory structures up to 120 sq ft, and none inside design review or preservation districts. |
| Floodplain development permit | If the lot is in a FEMA special flood hazard area, communities in the flood insurance program must permit all development there, sheds included. |
| Electrical permit | Running power to the shed needs an electrical permit even when the shed itself is exempt.Confidence: medium |
Local details
- Call 811 at least a few days before you dig footings or post holes. Utility locating is free.
- HOA covenants and deed restrictions can be stricter than city rules. Check yours before you build.
How to apply
- Sacramento required permits
- Phone: 311 (916-264-5011)
Questions people ask
- When does a shed need a building permit in Sacramento?
- Sacramento exempts only one-story detached accessory structures up to 120 sq ft, and none inside design review or preservation districts. One-story detached sheds up to 120 sq ft, outside design review and preservation districts, don't need a building permit.
- Where do I apply for a shed permit in Sacramento?
- Apply through Sacramento required permits, or call 311 (916-264-5011).
Sources
- City of Sacramento, Required permits. Checked 2026-10-19.
One-story detached accessory structures, provided the floor area is not greater than 120 square feet. Fences not over 7 feet high... Decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to …
- 44 CFR 59.1, definition of development (NFIP). Checked 2026-10-19.
Development means any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures...
- 44 CFR 60.3, floodplain management criteria. Checked 2026-10-19.
Require permits for all proposed construction or other development in the community...
- 2024 IRC R105.2, Work exempt from permit (text published by the City of Benson, AZ). Checked 2026-10-19.
One-story detached accessory structures, provided that the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet. Fences not over 7 feet high. Decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to a…