Accessory Buildings
Accessory Buildings
An accessory building is any non habitable, secondary building on a lot other than the main building(s). Examples include workshops, storage sheds, detached private garages, tool/garden sheds, playhouses and animal shelters.
Zoning Requirements
The County has a zoning code that divides the unincorporated areas of the county into "specific districts." In an attempt to maintain the design and character of your neighborhood, the code imposes certain minimum design standards, setbacks and regulations about allowable uses.

When you apply for a building permit, the application will automatically be routed to the Planning Division for review.

Please contact the Planning Division before you finalize your plans to make sure that the accessory building meets minimum zoning requirements and does not encroach on easements or required side, front, or rear yard areas.
Building Permit Fees
Fees are charged for each type of permit issued such as building, plumbing, electrical and mechanical. The permit fee is based on the valuation of the project, and calculated from fee tables established in the code. The fees provide for the checking of plans and adequate field inspection of the materials and methods of construction.
Environmental Health
Before the plans can be finalized, confirmation by Environmental Health is required to ensure that the accessory building does not encroach upon the existing sewage system or designated reserve area.

If the plot plan lacks adequate detail and the septic system location cannot be verified through file review, a field inspection may be required and a fee charged.
Required Drawings
Minimum Plan Checklist

Four (4) sets of the following drawings are required, if applicable:

Sheet Sizes/Scale - 81/2"x 11" or larger plan sheets are required. Plot plan scale to be sized to show overall property, if less than 1/8"/ft. scale, an enlargement of the building site to at least 1/8" scale is required. Detail is to be at least 1/2" scale, all other views a minimum 1/4" scale. Number each sheet, example: sheet 1 of 8, 2 of 8, etc.

Plot Plan - This plan is a view of the entire property. Clearly show and dimension to scale all property lines, easements, setbacks, roads, drainage away from the building, existing structures, proposed structures/additions, retaining walls, water well(s), septic system(s), LP tank(s), streams, north arrow, scale, owner name, name of person preparing plans and project address. Additions and/or areas of remodel shall be shaded and/or cross hatched in relation to overall building.

Foundation Plan - Provide layout of foundation to scale. Show perimeter and interior bearing footings, slab, piers, stairs, etc. Show details of each foundation section indicating size, reinforcement and sill plate attachment.

Roof Framing Plan - Provide sheathing thickness, size, grade, spacing and layout of all framing members. Provide wet stamped and signed manufactured truss plan(s) and layout if applicable. Show details of all connections, components, attachments, anchorage, etc.

Floor Plan - Show all interior and exterior walls, doors, windows, plumbing fixtures. Show all electrical outlets, switches, lights, and electric panel(s).

Elevations - Show the elevations being changed. Show all exterior features such as the style of the building, doors, windows, decks, finishes, trims, etc.

A hand out is available through the Building Division office that may assist in plan preparation. This hand out includes samples of the plans listed above with examples of the type of information and degree of detailing required for plan submittal.
Inspections
All permits issued require an inspection during and/or at completion of the work. Scheduling inspections is the responsibility of the permittee. The following inspections are required for accessory structures:

Foundation -to be made after trenches are excavated, forms erected and steel is in place.

Underfloor/Slab -to be made after the installation of underfloor plumbing if applicable, and all reinforcement, rock, sand, membrane (if applicable) are in place.

Roof Nail - to be made after installation and nailing of the roof sheathing.

Frame - to be made after the roof, all framing, fire blocking, siding, lath, windows and bracing are in place and all pipes and rough electrical are installed.

Sheetrock nail - to be made after the sheetrock is installed and nailed or screwed and prior to tape or texture.

Final - to be made after the structure is completed and ready for occupancy.

Not all of the inspections listed above will apply to every job. If it is uncertain as to which inspections pertain, please check with the Building Division Office. Do not cover anything prior to inspection.

When To Call For An Inspection
For your convenience, the Building Division provides a 24-hour inspection requests line. When you call please leave the permit number, address and type of inspection requested. Inspections will be made on the day following request. The approved plans and the inspection card that are issued should be on the job site and available to the inspector at the time of inspection. Inspection Request Phone (707) 784-4750
Important Numbers
Department of Resource Management
675 Texas Street, Suite 5500, Fairfield.
Building/Planning/Health/Public Works Divisions (707) 784-6765
Building Inspection request line (707) 784-4750