City Guide · Verified 2026
Shed Installation Permits in San Francisco
Local Rule
City and County of San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (DBI); San Francisco Building Code Section 106A.2.1 — a separate official sf.gov permit-check page states a stricter 100 sqft/8ft figure for the same category
A one-story detached accessory building or structure used as a tool and storage shed, playhouse, or similar use is exempt from a building permit under SF.gov's "Check if your construction project needs a permit" page when the projected roof area is less than 100 square feet and no taller than 8 feet; the DBI FAQ instead cites the Building Code text (SFBC 106A.2.1) allowing up to 120 square feet and 10 feet, so the two official city sources conflict, with Planning Code garden-structure rules apparently imposing the stricter 100 sqft/8ft figure in practice. A storage shed exceeding either maximum requires a building permit with Planning Department approval of setbacks and location. Electrical receptacles can be added to an exempt shed only with a separate electrical permit.
Source · Verified September 2026
San Francisco Building Department
Office: San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (DBI)
Address: 49 South Van Ness Ave., San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: (628) 652-3200
Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.
How This Compares to San Francisco County
San Francisco's own rule is shown above (No permit under 100 sqft). Here is the separate rule that applies at the county level, for context:
San Francisco Department of Building Inspection
The City and County of San Francisco exempts one-story detached tool and storage sheds from building permits provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet. Furthermore, the shed must not be more than 10 feet high. The exemption is strictly limited to non-habitable storage, and only one permit-exempt storage shed is allowed per lot or yard without obtaining a building permit.
Nearby Cities with Verified Rules
Other cities near San Francisco with a confirmed shed installation rule:
FAQs
Which department handles Shed Installation permits in San Francisco?
City and County of San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (DBI); San Francisco Building Code Section 106A.2.1 — a separate official sf.gov permit-check page states a stricter 100 sqft/8ft figure for the same category handles Shed Installation permits in San Francisco.
Is San Francisco different from San Francisco County on Shed Installation?
No. San Francisco's rule (No permit under 100 sqft) matches the general pattern in San Francisco County.
Building It Yourself? Here's What You'll Need
Popular tools and materials homeowners use for a shed installation project:
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