Oakland, CA shed and backyard pod permit exemption

Oakland allows one accessory structure of less than 120 sq ft per property without a building permit. A 10 x 12 ft building is exactly 120 sq ft, which is not less than 120 sq ft. Zoning review still applies. Mechanical, electrical or plumbing work needs a permit.

Oakland quick facts

Size limit: Less than 120 sq ft
Measured as: Area. The basis is not listed.
Height: Generally 15 ft maximum.
Electrical power: A permit is needed if mechanical, electrical or plumbing work is involved.
Use: A bedroom or full bathroom rules out the setback waiver.
Source: City of Oakland Planning and Building
Checked: Nov 5, 2026

Official text

“Up to one structure measuring less than 120 sq ft per property is generally permitted outright”

Source: City of Oakland Planning and Building.

Other conditions

One structure under 120 sq ft per property
Zoning review is still required
Side and rear setbacks may be waived if the whole structure is within 35 ft of the rear lot line, walls are 9 ft max, the peak is 12 ft max and at least 50% of the rear yard stays open (OMC 17.108.130 K)

Pod sizes compared with the Oakland size limit

9 of 36 pod sizes are under the 120 sq ft limit by floor area. Another 4 are exactly 120 sq ft. The other 23 are over the limit.

Autonomous MetroPod: 80 sq ft
Autonomous WorkPod: 102 sq ft
Autonomous StudioPod: 105 sq ft
Studio Home Signature 8 x 10 ft: 80 sq ft
Studio Home Signature 8 x 12 ft: 96 sq ft
Studio Home Signature 8 x 14 ft: 112 sq ft
Studio Home Signature 10 x 10 ft: 100 sq ft
Studio Home Portland 8 x 12 ft: 96 sq ft
Studio Home Portland 8 x 14 ft: 112 sq ft

Exactly 120 sq ft: Studio Home Signature 10 x 12 ft, Studio Home Portland 10 x 12 ft, Kanga Room Systems Modern Kwik Room 10 x 12 ft, Kanga Room Systems Cottage Kwik Room 10 x 12 ft.

Of the pods within the limit, 3 ship pre-wired, all from Autonomous. This rule addresses electrical power, so that condition applies to them.

The building department for the address decides whether a permit is required. This site repeats published rules and compares them with published pod sizes. Zoning rules, HOA rules and setbacks can also apply.