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Desert Hot Springs · Building on your lot

Sheds, garages and other accessory structures in Desert Hot Springs

Desert Hot Springs limits accessory structures to the height of the main structure, unless stored items such as a recreational vehicle need more.

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Key points

  • Accessory height: Desert Hot Springs limits accessory structures to the height of the main structure, unless stored items such as a recreational vehicle need more.

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

What Desert Hot Springs's code says

Desert Hot Springs code What Desert Hot Springs's code adds
Maximum height
  • Accessory structures can be no taller than the main building.
    Applies: Unless more height is needed for the items stored inside, such as a recreational vehicle garage.
    § 17.08.110 · code text
    An accessory structure shall not exceed the overall height of the main structure except in the instance where the accessory structure height is necessary for the materials and items being stored inside such as a recreational vehicle garage.
Side and rear setback
  • At least 5 feet from the property line.
    Applies: Barbecues, tennis courts, gazebos and sheds under 120 square feet, cabanas, and sun and shade sails.
    § 17.08.110 · code text
    Accessory structures such as barbecues, tennis courts, gazebos and sheds (less than 120 square feet), cabanas, and sun and shade sails shall be no closer than 5 feet from the property line.
  • At least 10 feet from the property line.
    Applies: Enclosed roofed structures such as patio covers, garages, barns, pump houses, and gazebos and sheds over 120 square feet.
    § 17.08.110 · code text
    Enclosed accessory structures with roofs such as patio covers, garages, barns, pump houses, gazebos and sheds (greater than 120 square feet) shall be no closer than 10 feet.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

How big can a shed or accessory building be in Desert Hot Springs?

Desert Hot Springs limits accessory structures to the height of the main structure, unless stored items such as a recreational vehicle need more.

General information, not legal advice.

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

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Desert Hot Springs Municipal Code — full text