Shed Installation Permits in San Bernardino

Local Rule

City of San Bernardino Building & Safety Division; California Building Code Section 105.2 / California Residential Code Section R105.2 (San Bernardino-adopted)

San Bernardino exempts a one-story detached accessory structure used as a tool or storage shed, playhouse, or similar use from a building permit when the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet, per the city's own Building & Safety Division page. Decks not exceeding 200 square feet, not more than 30 inches above grade, not attached to a dwelling, and not serving an exit door are separately exempt. Non-masonry fences not over 7 feet high are exempt from a building permit, though Planning Division approval is still required to confirm zoning compliance.

Source · Verified September 2026

San Bernardino Building Department

Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.

How This Compares to San Bernardino County

San Bernardino's own rule is shown above (No permit under 120 sqft). Here is the separate rule that applies at the county level, for context:

San Bernardino County / local code

California's building code lowers the shed exemption to 120 square feet (a 10x12 shed), below the national 200, with a 12-foot height cap. Anything larger, taller, on a permanent slab, or with electrical or plumbing needs a permit. In San Bernardino County the shed must also meet zoning setbacks (commonly 5 feet from side and rear lines) and, in fire-hazard zones, ignition-resistant requirements.

See the full county page

Nearby Cities with Verified Rules

Other cities near San Bernardino with a confirmed shed installation rule:

FAQs

Building It Yourself? Here's What You'll Need

Popular tools and materials homeowners use for a shed installation project:

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