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Big Bear Lake · Building on your lot

Sheds, garages and other accessory structures in Big Bear Lake

In residential zones, Big Bear Lake sets sheds under 10 feet tall 10 feet from the rear lot line, and taller ones 15 feet.

Ask about sheds, garages and other accessory structures in Big Bear Lake See coverage

Key points

  • Shed setbacks: In residential zones, Big Bear Lake sets sheds under 10 feet tall 10 feet from the rear lot line, and taller ones 15 feet.

Each rule below links to the section of the Big Bear Lake Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Big Bear Lake's code says

Big Bear Lake code What Big Bear Lake's code adds
Side and rear setback
  • At least 10 feet from the rear lot line, including eaves.
    Applies: All residential zones: portable sheds, children's playhouses and similar non-habitable structures less than 10 feet high.
    § 17.25.060 · code text
    Portable storage sheds, children's playhouses, and other similar non-habitable accessory structures that are less than ten (10) feet in height shall not be located closer (including eaves) than ten (10) feet to the rear lot line.
  • At least 15 feet from the rear property line.
    Applies: All residential zones: sheds, playhouses, patio covers, gazebos and similar non-habitable structures over 10 feet high. Front and side setbacks match the main structure.
    § 17.25.060 · code text
    Storage sheds, children's playhouses, attached or detached patio covers, gazebos, and other similar non-habitable structures that are over ten (10) feet in height shall not be located closer than fifteen (15) feet from the rear property line.
Distance from the house
  • At least 6 feet from the main home on the same lot.
    Applies: R-L and R-1 zones: detached accessory structures other than a garage, carport or guest house.
    § 17.25.060 · code text
    A minimum distance of six feet is required between any other detached accessory structure and a primary residential structure established on the same lot or parcel of land.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

How big can a shed or accessory building be in Big Bear Lake?

In residential zones, Big Bear Lake sets sheds under 10 feet tall 10 feet from the rear lot line, and taller ones 15 feet.

General information, not legal advice.

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Ask GoCodebook how Big Bear Lake's sheds, garages and other accessory structures rules apply to your situation and get an answer that cites the section.

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Big Bear Lake Municipal Code — full text