Shed Permit in San Jose, California

Permit required?

Sometimes, depending on the project.

Typical threshold: shed under 120 sq ft without electrical or plumbing does not require a permit.

When a permit is usually needed

Before building a shed at or above 120 sq ft or adding utilities to any shed

Permit cost and what affects it

Fees are set by the locality and are not published here. See the official fee schedule or contact the office for current amounts.

Permit costs generally depend on the project valuation, the scope of work, and the inspections required. Ask the office how the fee is calculated for your specific project.

Where to apply

• Official permit page
• Permit portal

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a shed permit in San Jose?

Detached accessory structures under 120 square feet without electrical or plumbing are exempt from a building permit in San Jose. Sheds of 120 square feet or larger require a permit. Any shed with electrical or plumbing work also requires the appropriate trade permit regardless of size. The typical threshold is shed under 120 sq ft without electrical or plumbing does not require a permit. Always confirm with the office before starting.

How much does a shed permit cost in San Jose?

Fees are set by San Jose and are not published here. Contact the office for current amounts.

How long does a shed permit take in San Jose?

Processing time for a shed permit in San Jose varies by workload and project scope. Contact the City of San Jose Building Division (Planning Building and Code Enforcement) for a current estimate.

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

You can apply through the San Jose permit portal or contact the City of San Jose Building Division (Planning Building and Code Enforcement) directly. The links are listed on this page.

Official sources

• https://www.sanjoseca.gov/businesses/development-services-permit-center/start-your-project/when-is-a-building-permit-required
• https://www.sanjoseca.gov/business/development-services-permit-center