Permit Requirements
Santa Clara City Code § 18.32.020
in effectA. Permit Requirements. Except as otherwise exempt in Subsection b, residential accessory structures require Architectural Review Check as described in Chapter 18.120 (Architectural Review).
B. Exemptions. The following residential accessory structures are exempt from permits and approvals governed by this Title, provided they comply with any specified limitations. Exempt accessory structures may require building permits in keeping with the California Building Code.
1. Enclosed and/or solid-roofed accessory structures that are 120 square feet or smaller and no greater than 16 feet in height.
2. Structures shall not be located in a required front yard.
3. In order to maintain necessary fire breaks, all combustible residential accessory structures shall be set back a minimum of four feet from side and rear property lines with a minimum six-foot separation between structures.
Source: City of Santa Clara Zoning Code (santaclaraca.gov PDF)URL: https://www.santaclaraca.gov/our-city/departments-a-f/community-development/planning-division/zoningFetched: 10/24/2026