Summary

Accessory structures, including storage buildings and sheds, are subordinate and incidental to the main structure or main use of the land – thus not allowed on residential parcels without a primary dwelling.

Vacant parcels

Accessory structures are not allowed on vacant parcels.

Sheds and Decks Requiring a Building Permit

A building permit is generally required for the construction, alteration, repair, or demolition of any shed that is attached, or, if detached, greater than 120 square feet in area or 10 feet high. Building permits are required for any structure with electrical wiring or plumbing beyond a hose bib.

Decks require a building permit when more than 200 square feet in area, more than 30 inches above grade at any point, attached to a dwelling or serving a door. Decks greater than 18 inches high must meet standard setbacks or qualify for an exception.

A Building Permit Is Not Required for a Shed When …

All the following criteria are met:

• The new structure does not exceed 120 square feet.
• The shed does not exceed one story or 10 feet in height, measured to the top of the roof sheathing.
• The structure is not used or rented out as a dwelling or habitable space.
• It does not contain electricity or plumbing.
• It is unheated and not air-conditioned.
• It may not contain a bathroom (no toilet, sink, tub or shower).
• It may not contain any kitchen/cooking or food prep facilities.
• It may not be rented out as a dwelling unit or habitable space.
• It may not have a separate electric meter.
• It is not located in a riparian corridor or buffer, floodplain, or a designated sensitive habitat. Please consult with Environmental Planning to determine if these limitations are present on the parcel.
• The shed must be detached from other structures. (Note the minimum distance separation between any two detached structures shall be no less than three feet, or as provided by the California Building Code or Fire Code, whichever is greater.)

Additional Information

A detached accessory structure less than 120 square feet in size and 10 feet or less in height may be constructed to within three feet of the side and rear property lines, unless a building envelope not based on zoning standards has been established on the parcel for some other purpose, such as a setback from a sensitive habitat or geological hazard. Accessory structures greater than 120 sq.ft. or 10’ high must meet standard setback and height requirements for the zone district. Please inquire at the Planning Department to determine the zoning standards for the lot.

Limited plumbing (toilet and sink, a washer/dryer, and water heater) and electrical service of 100A/220V are allowed in non-habitable accessory structures with appropriate electrical and plumbing permits.

See also the Accessory Structures bulletin.

Greenhouses

Greenhouses of up to 1,000 square feet are permitted in all residential districts with just a building permit. Greenhouses greater than 1,000 square feet are potentially allowable in the RA, SU and RR zone districts with a Minor Use Permit but are not allowed in any other residential districts. Unlike other accessory structures, greenhouses are not subject to the standards set forth in County Code § 13.10.611. Rather, they are subject to the residential site and structural standards described in 13.10.323(C). Cannabis cultivation is restricted by zone district. Check with Cannabis Licensing Office for licensing information and application process
(http://www.co.santa-cruz.ca.us/CannabisLicensingOffice.aspx ).