Sheds, garages and other accessory structures in Pacifica

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

What Pacifica's code says

Pacifica code What Pacifica's code adds
Maximum height	No more than 12 feet. Applies: For an accessory building in the rear setback. § 9-4.2704 · code text Building height shall not exceed twelve (12′) feet;
Size or lot coverage	No more than 600 square feet in total. Applies: For all detached non-living accessory structures together in the rear setback of a lot. § 9-4.2704 · code text The total area covered by detached nondwelling accessory structures located in the rear setback of a lot may not exceed 600 square feet.
Side and rear setback	At least 1½ feet from the side and rear lot lines. Applies: For a detached accessory building in the rear setback, used only for non-living uses like a garage or storage, in residential districts. § 9-4.2704 · code text At least a one-and-one-half (1½) foot setback is provided from the side and/or rear lot line,
Distance from the house	At least 5 feet. Applies: Every part of a detached accessory building, from any building existing or being built on the same lot. § 9-4.2704 · code text All portions of the accessory building shall be located at least five (5′) feet from any building existing or under construction on the same lot;

Who this affects

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Frequently asked questions

How big can a shed or accessory building be in Pacifica?

Accessory buildings in the rear setback are limited to 12 feet tall, and detached nondwelling ones there to 600 square feet in total.

Sheds, garages and other accessory structures in Pacifica

Key points

What Pacifica's code says

Who this affects

Frequently asked questions

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