When does a shed need a building permit in San Jose?

San Jose exempts only accessory structures of 120 sq ft or less that won't be electrically wired. Accessory structures of 120 sq ft or less with no wiring don't need a building permit.

Where do I apply for a shed permit in San Jose?

Apply through SJPermits.org, or call (408) 535-3555.

Do you need a permit for a shed in San Jose, CA?

It depends on size and placement.

San Jose exempts sheds up to 120 sq ft only if they won't be wired for electricity.

Any wiring at all means a building permit for the shed itself.

Rules last checked by a person on October 19, 2026. Guidance only; confirm with San Jose 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 San Jose

Permit	When it applies
Building permit	San Jose exempts only accessory structures of 120 sq ft or less that won't be electrically wired.
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

Questions people ask

When does a shed need a building permit in San Jose?: San Jose exempts only accessory structures of 120 sq ft or less that won't be electrically wired. Accessory structures of 120 sq ft or less with no wiring don't need a building permit.
Where do I apply for a shed permit in San Jose?: Apply through SJPermits.org, or call (408) 535-3555.

Sources

San Jose Building Division Bulletin 201, When Is a Building Permit Required? (10/10/2024). Checked 2026-10-19.
Accessory structures of 120 square feet or less and that will not be electrically wired... [fences] no higher than 7 feet along rear and side yards and no higher than 3 feet along front yard... Decks in Group R-3 occupancy that are not attached to a dwellin…
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…