Shed Installation Permits in San Jose

Local Rule

City of San José Development Services, Department of Planning, Building and Code Enforcement (PBCE); San José Municipal Code Section 20.30.500

If the planned size of an accessory building or structure is greater than 120 square feet, a building permit is required, per the city's own Development Services Permit Center handout; if the structure includes electrical or plumbing improvements, a permit is required regardless of size. Any accessory structure greater than 650 square feet requires a Special Use Permit in addition to a building permit, requiring a call to the Permit Center to speak with a planner.

Source · Verified September 2026

San Jose Building Department

Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.

How This Compares to Santa Clara County

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

Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara 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 Jose 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:

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.