Do I need a permit to build a shed in Clovis, CA?

In Clovis, a detached accessory structure like a shed requires a building permit if it exceeds 120 square feet in floor area. Sheds under 120 square feet are generally exempt from the permit requirement, but they must still comply with zoning setbacks and cannot be placed over utility easements. If your shed includes electrical wiring, plumbing, or is attached to another structure, a permit is required regardless of size. Before starting construction, it is always a good idea to confirm the current threshold with the Clovis Building and Safety Division, as code amendments can change these limits. A site plan showing the shed's location and setbacks from property lines will be required as part of any permit application.

What are the setback requirements for residential properties in Clovis?

Setback requirements in Clovis vary by zoning district, but typical single-family residential zones (R-1) generally require a front yard setback of 15 to 20 feet, interior side yard setbacks of 5 feet, street-side setbacks of 10 feet on corner lots, and rear yard setbacks of 15 to 20 feet for primary structures. Detached accessory structures like sheds and pool equipment may be allowed as close as 5 feet to rear and interior side property lines. ADUs built under California state law may qualify for reduced setbacks of as little as 4 feet from the rear and side lines. Always verify your specific parcel's requirements with the Clovis Community Development Department or by checking the Clovis Municipal Code directly, since planned development zones and specific plan areas may have different standards.

How long does it take to get a building permit approved in Clovis, CA?

Permit approval timelines in Clovis depend on the complexity of the project. Simple over-the-counter permits, such as a small fence or water heater replacement, can sometimes be issued the same day. Standard residential plan checks for projects like room additions, patio covers, or pools typically take 10 to 20 business days for a first review. ADU applications and projects requiring engineering review may take 15 to 30 business days. If the plan reviewer issues correction comments, each resubmittal adds additional review time, often 5 to 10 more business days. Submitting a complete, accurate application package with a properly drawn site plan is the single most effective way to avoid delays and get your permit issued faster.

How much does a site plan cost in Clovis, CA?

The cost of a site plan for a Clovis permit application depends on how you obtain it. Hiring a licensed surveyor to prepare a boundary and improvement survey can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,500 or more, depending on lot size and complexity. A civil engineer or drafting service typically charges $300 to $1,000 for a basic residential site plan. Online tools like Site Plan Creator offer a much more affordable option, allowing homeowners to create a to-scale site plan themselves for a fraction of the cost of professional drafting services. Permit fees themselves are separate and are based on the valuation of the proposed construction. The city of Clovis publishes a fee schedule through its Building and Safety Division that you can request or review before submitting.

Can I draw my own site plan in Clovis, or do I need a licensed surveyor?

For most standard residential permit applications in Clovis, you are not required to hire a licensed surveyor or engineer to prepare the site plan. Homeowners and contractors can prepare their own site plans as long as the drawing is legible, drawn to a recognized scale, and includes all required elements: lot dimensions, structure footprints, setback distances, north arrow, scale bar, and a legend. However, if your project involves grading, drainage changes, retaining walls over 4 feet, or is located in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area, a licensed engineer or surveyor may be required to certify certain elements. Online tools like Site Plan Creator make it straightforward for non-professionals to produce accurate, plan-check-ready site plans without drafting experience.

Where do I submit a site plan or permit application in Clovis?

Clovis accepts building permit applications both online and in person. The online permitting portal is accessible through the City of Clovis Community Development Department website and is the recommended method for most residential projects in 2026. In-person submissions are accepted at the Building and Safety Division counter located at Clovis City Hall, 1033 Fifth Street, Clovis, CA 93612. Counter hours are typically Monday through Friday during regular business hours, though it is wise to confirm current hours before visiting. For straightforward projects, online submission can reduce intake processing time. More complex projects involving multiple plan sheets or engineering reports may benefit from an in-person pre-application meeting with a plan reviewer before formal submittal.

What happens if I build without a permit in Clovis, CA?

Building without a required permit in Clovis is a serious violation of the Clovis Municipal Code and the California Building Code. If unpermitted work is discovered, the city can issue a stop-work order immediately halting all construction. You may be required to obtain a retroactive permit, which often involves exposing completed work for inspection, and penalty fees can be assessed on top of standard permit fees. In some cases, the city may require unpermitted structures to be demolished if they cannot be brought into compliance. Unpermitted work can also complicate future home sales, as buyers' inspectors and title companies routinely flag it. It can also affect your homeowner's insurance coverage if a claim involves unpermitted construction.

What are the ADU rules in Clovis, CA for 2026?

California state law, specifically Government Code Section 65852.2, significantly expanded ADU rights statewide, and Clovis is required to comply with these provisions. In 2026, most single-family residential lots in Clovis can accommodate at least one ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU). ADUs can be detached new construction, attached additions, or conversions of existing space like a garage or basement. Detached ADUs may be built with as little as 4-foot rear and side setbacks. Owner-occupancy requirements for ADUs and JADUs have been suspended under state law through at least 2025, though you should confirm current status. Permit applications for ADUs must include a site plan showing the unit's location, setbacks, parking (if required), and utility connections. The city offers expedited review for ADU applications that comply with pre-approved standards.

Do I need a permit to install a pool in Clovis, CA?

Yes, installing a swimming pool or spa in Clovis requires a building permit. This applies to in-ground pools of any size and above-ground pools or spas that hold water more than 18 inches deep. Your permit application must include a site plan showing the pool's location, its distance from all property lines and existing structures, the location of pool equipment, and any proposed fencing. California law also requires a barrier (fence or enclosure) around all residential pools to prevent child access, and this barrier must meet specific height and gate-latch requirements. Pool electrical work requires a separate electrical permit. Plan review for a pool permit typically takes 10 to 20 business days in Clovis, and multiple inspections are required during construction.

What needs to be included on a residential site plan in Clovis?

The Clovis Building and Safety Division expects a residential site plan to contain several key elements for a permit application to be accepted as complete. Your site plan should show the full lot boundary with dimensions, the location and footprint of all existing structures on the property, the proposed new structure or improvement drawn to scale, labeled setback distances from the proposed work to all property lines, the location of any easements shown on the recorded subdivision map, a north arrow, a graphic scale bar, the street address and assessor parcel number, and a brief project description. For ADU projects, utility connection points and parking spaces should also be shown. Drawings should be legible and printed on paper no smaller than 11 by 17 inches for counter review, though the online portal may accept PDF uploads.

Site Plan Requirements in Clovis, CA (Permit Guide)

By Site Plan Creator Team • June 11, 2026

Clovis, California homeowners need a properly prepared site plan for most residential building permits, from ADUs and room additions to pools and fences. This guide covers Clovis permit triggers, setback requirements, submission procedures, and how Site Plan Creator can help you get started quickly.

Site plan requirements for residential properties in Clovis, California

Residential Site Plans and Building Permits in Clovis, CA

Clovis is one of the fastest-growing cities in the San Joaquin Valley, consistently ranked among California's safest and most family-friendly communities. Nestled just east of Fresno in Fresno County, Clovis has seen a steady surge in residential construction, backyard ADU projects, and home improvement activity in recent years. Whether you are adding a covered patio, converting your garage into a living space, or installing an in-ground pool, the City of Clovis requires a building permit for most structural work, and nearly every permit application starts with a clear, accurate residential site plan. Understanding what Clovis expects before you submit can save you weeks of back-and-forth with the Building and Safety Division.

What Is a Residential Site Plan and Why Does Clovis Require One?

A residential site plan is a scaled, bird's-eye drawing of your property that shows the boundaries of your lot, the location of all existing and proposed structures, driveways, utility easements, setbacks, and other key features. It is sometimes called a plot plan or site map.

Clovis requires a site plan as part of virtually every building permit application because plan reviewers need to verify that your proposed project:

Meets the setback requirements of your zoning district
Does not encroach on utility easements or drainage corridors
Stays within maximum lot coverage limits
Complies with the Clovis Municipal Code and the California Building Code

Without a complete and accurate site plan, your permit application will be flagged as incomplete and returned before review even begins.

Common Residential Permit Triggers in Clovis

Many homeowners are surprised by how broad the permit requirement list is in Clovis. The following projects almost always require both a building permit and a site plan:

Room additions and home expansions of any size
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior ADUs (JADUs), including garage conversions
Detached garages and carports
Swimming pools and spas (in-ground and above-ground over 18 inches deep)
Decks and patios that are attached to the house or elevated more than 30 inches
Patio covers and pergolas attached to the primary structure
Sheds and accessory structures over 120 square feet
Fences exceeding 6 feet in height (or 3 feet in front yard areas per local code)
Driveway expansions or new concrete flatwork that alters drainage
Solar panel installations on rooftops or ground-mounted arrays
Retaining walls over 4 feet from the bottom of the footing

Smaller projects, like painting, flooring replacement, or installing pre-manufactured storage sheds under 120 square feet, typically do not require a permit, but it is always wise to confirm with the Clovis Building and Safety Division before starting work.

Zoning Considerations and Local Quirks in Clovis

Clovis operates under its own General Plan and Municipal Code, separate from Fresno, though the two cities share a border. A few local factors are worth understanding before you prepare your site plan:

HOA Restrictions

A large portion of Clovis's newer residential subdivisions are governed by Homeowners Associations. HOA architectural review is a completely separate process from the city permit process. You may need HOA approval before you can even break ground, and HOA design standards can be stricter than city code. Always check your CC&Rs.

Floodplain and Drainage

Parts of Clovis, particularly near the dry creek corridors and older neighborhoods north of Shaw Avenue, fall within FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas. If your property is in a flood zone, your site plan must reflect finished floor elevations and may require a FEMA Elevation Certificate. You can check your flood zone status at the FEMA Flood Map Service Center.

Agricultural Buffer Zones

Clovis sits at the edge of some of Fresno County's most productive farmland. Properties near the city's eastern edge may be subject to agricultural buffer requirements that affect where you can place structures.

California ADU Law

California's state ADU statutes (Government Code Section 65852.2) preempt many local restrictions, making it easier than ever to add an ADU or JADU in Clovis. However, the city still requires a complete permit application with a site plan showing the ADU's location, setbacks, and utility connections.

Typical Setback Requirements in Clovis

Setbacks vary by zoning district. The following ranges reflect common residential zones (R-1, R-2) in Clovis and should be verified against your specific parcel's zoning designation:

Front yard setback: 15 to 20 feet from the front property line
Side yard setback: 5 feet minimum (interior lots); corner lots may require 10 feet on the street side
Rear yard setback: 15 to 20 feet for primary structures; accessory structures may be allowed as close as 5 feet
Garage setback: 20 feet from the front property line when facing the street

ADUs under California state law may have reduced setback requirements, often as little as 4 feet from the rear and side property lines, depending on the ADU type. Always confirm current setbacks with the Community Development Department or by reviewing the Clovis Municipal Code.

The Clovis Permit Submission Process

Clovis has modernized its permitting workflow in recent years. Here is what to expect in 2026:

1. Determine Your Project Scope

Before preparing any documents, confirm with the Building and Safety Division whether your project requires a permit and what type of review is needed (over-the-counter, standard plan check, or engineering review).

2. Prepare Your Application Package

A typical residential permit package includes a completed permit application, a site plan, construction drawings or specifications, and any required engineering calculations. Your site plan must be drawn to a recognizable scale (commonly 1 inch = 10 feet or 1 inch = 20 feet) and include lot dimensions, structure footprints, setback dimensions, north arrow, and a legend.

3. Submit Online or In Person

Clovis accepts permit applications online through its permitting portal and in person at the Community Development Department counter at City Hall. Online submission is strongly encouraged for straightforward residential projects and can speed up the intake process.

4. Plan Review Timeline

Over-the-counter approvals for simple projects (like a small shed or fence) can sometimes be issued the same day. Standard residential plan checks typically take 10 to 20 business days for a first review. ADUs and larger additions may take 15 to 30 business days, especially if engineering review is required. Correction cycles add additional time, so submitting a complete and accurate package the first time is critical.

5. Permit Issuance and Inspections

Once approved, you pay your permit fees, receive your permit, and post it on-site. Inspections are required at key milestones (foundation, framing, electrical rough-in, final). You can schedule inspections through the city's online portal or by phone.

Common Reasons Clovis Permit Applications Get Rejected

Plan reviewers in Clovis frequently flag applications for the following issues:

Missing or incorrect dimensions: Setback distances not labeled, or lot dimensions inconsistent with county assessor records
No north arrow or scale bar: Required on every site plan
Incomplete project description: Vague descriptions like "patio cover" without specifying size, height, or materials
Encroachment into easements: Proposed structures placed over utility or drainage easements shown on the recorded subdivision map
Failure to show existing structures: All existing buildings, fences, and impervious surfaces must appear on the plan
Missing HOA approval documentation: Some projects require proof of HOA approval before city review proceeds

Get Your Clovis Site Plan Right the First Time

Preparing a professional-quality site plan does not have to be complicated or expensive. Site Plan Creator gives Clovis homeowners and contractors an intuitive online tool to generate accurate, to-scale residential site plans that meet the formatting expectations of the Clovis Building and Safety Division. You can input your parcel dimensions, place structures, label setbacks, and download a print-ready PDF in a fraction of the time it would take to draft one manually. Start your Clovis site plan today and move your permit application forward with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to build a shed in Clovis, CA?: In Clovis, a detached accessory structure like a shed requires a building permit if it exceeds 120 square feet in floor area. Sheds under 120 square feet are generally exempt from the permit requirement, but they must still comply with zoning setbacks and cannot be placed over utility easements. If your shed includes electrical wiring, plumbing, or is attached to another structure, a permit is required regardless of size. Before starting construction, it is always a good idea to confirm the current threshold with the Clovis Building and Safety Division, as code amendments can change these limits. A site plan showing the shed's location and setbacks from property lines will be required as part of any permit application.
What are the setback requirements for residential properties in Clovis?: Setback requirements in Clovis vary by zoning district, but typical single-family residential zones (R-1) generally require a front yard setback of 15 to 20 feet, interior side yard setbacks of 5 feet, street-side setbacks of 10 feet on corner lots, and rear yard setbacks of 15 to 20 feet for primary structures. Detached accessory structures like sheds and pool equipment may be allowed as close as 5 feet to rear and interior side property lines. ADUs built under California state law may qualify for reduced setbacks of as little as 4 feet from the rear and side lines. Always verify your specific parcel's requirements with the Clovis Community Development Department or by checking the Clovis Municipal Code directly, since planned development zones and specific plan areas may have different standards.
How long does it take to get a building permit approved in Clovis, CA?: Permit approval timelines in Clovis depend on the complexity of the project. Simple over-the-counter permits, such as a small fence or water heater replacement, can sometimes be issued the same day. Standard residential plan checks for projects like room additions, patio covers, or pools typically take 10 to 20 business days for a first review. ADU applications and projects requiring engineering review may take 15 to 30 business days. If the plan reviewer issues correction comments, each resubmittal adds additional review time, often 5 to 10 more business days. Submitting a complete, accurate application package with a properly drawn site plan is the single most effective way to avoid delays and get your permit issued faster.
How much does a site plan cost in Clovis, CA?: The cost of a site plan for a Clovis permit application depends on how you obtain it. Hiring a licensed surveyor to prepare a boundary and improvement survey can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,500 or more, depending on lot size and complexity. A civil engineer or drafting service typically charges $300 to $1,000 for a basic residential site plan. Online tools like Site Plan Creator offer a much more affordable option, allowing homeowners to create a to-scale site plan themselves for a fraction of the cost of professional drafting services. Permit fees themselves are separate and are based on the valuation of the proposed construction. The city of Clovis publishes a fee schedule through its Building and Safety Division that you can request or review before submitting.
Can I draw my own site plan in Clovis, or do I need a licensed surveyor?: For most standard residential permit applications in Clovis, you are not required to hire a licensed surveyor or engineer to prepare the site plan. Homeowners and contractors can prepare their own site plans as long as the drawing is legible, drawn to a recognized scale, and includes all required elements: lot dimensions, structure footprints, setback distances, north arrow, scale bar, and a legend. However, if your project involves grading, drainage changes, retaining walls over 4 feet, or is located in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area, a licensed engineer or surveyor may be required to certify certain elements. Online tools like Site Plan Creator make it straightforward for non-professionals to produce accurate, plan-check-ready site plans without drafting experience.
Where do I submit a site plan or permit application in Clovis?: Clovis accepts building permit applications both online and in person. The online permitting portal is accessible through the City of Clovis Community Development Department website and is the recommended method for most residential projects in 2026. In-person submissions are accepted at the Building and Safety Division counter located at Clovis City Hall, 1033 Fifth Street, Clovis, CA 93612. Counter hours are typically Monday through Friday during regular business hours, though it is wise to confirm current hours before visiting. For straightforward projects, online submission can reduce intake processing time. More complex projects involving multiple plan sheets or engineering reports may benefit from an in-person pre-application meeting with a plan reviewer before formal submittal.
What happens if I build without a permit in Clovis, CA?: Building without a required permit in Clovis is a serious violation of the Clovis Municipal Code and the California Building Code. If unpermitted work is discovered, the city can issue a stop-work order immediately halting all construction. You may be required to obtain a retroactive permit, which often involves exposing completed work for inspection, and penalty fees can be assessed on top of standard permit fees. In some cases, the city may require unpermitted structures to be demolished if they cannot be brought into compliance. Unpermitted work can also complicate future home sales, as buyers' inspectors and title companies routinely flag it. It can also affect your homeowner's insurance coverage if a claim involves unpermitted construction.
What are the ADU rules in Clovis, CA for 2026?: California state law, specifically Government Code Section 65852.2, significantly expanded ADU rights statewide, and Clovis is required to comply with these provisions. In 2026, most single-family residential lots in Clovis can accommodate at least one ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU). ADUs can be detached new construction, attached additions, or conversions of existing space like a garage or basement. Detached ADUs may be built with as little as 4-foot rear and side setbacks. Owner-occupancy requirements for ADUs and JADUs have been suspended under state law through at least 2025, though you should confirm current status. Permit applications for ADUs must include a site plan showing the unit's location, setbacks, parking (if required), and utility connections. The city offers expedited review for ADU applications that comply with pre-approved standards.
Do I need a permit to install a pool in Clovis, CA?: Yes, installing a swimming pool or spa in Clovis requires a building permit. This applies to in-ground pools of any size and above-ground pools or spas that hold water more than 18 inches deep. Your permit application must include a site plan showing the pool's location, its distance from all property lines and existing structures, the location of pool equipment, and any proposed fencing. California law also requires a barrier (fence or enclosure) around all residential pools to prevent child access, and this barrier must meet specific height and gate-latch requirements. Pool electrical work requires a separate electrical permit. Plan review for a pool permit typically takes 10 to 20 business days in Clovis, and multiple inspections are required during construction.
What needs to be included on a residential site plan in Clovis?: The Clovis Building and Safety Division expects a residential site plan to contain several key elements for a permit application to be accepted as complete. Your site plan should show the full lot boundary with dimensions, the location and footprint of all existing structures on the property, the proposed new structure or improvement drawn to scale, labeled setback distances from the proposed work to all property lines, the location of any easements shown on the recorded subdivision map, a north arrow, a graphic scale bar, the street address and assessor parcel number, and a brief project description. For ADU projects, utility connection points and parking spaces should also be shown. Drawings should be legible and printed on paper no smaller than 11 by 17 inches for counter review, though the online portal may accept PDF uploads.

How to Create a Site Plan in Clovis

Confirm Your Permit Requirements: Contact the Clovis Building and Safety Division or visit the City of Clovis Community Development Department website to confirm whether your specific project requires a building permit and what type of plan review applies. Describe your project in detail, including the size, location on the lot, and intended use. This step prevents you from preparing documents for the wrong permit category and helps you understand the full application package required before you invest time in drafting.
Gather Your Property Information: Collect your property's legal description, assessor parcel number (APN), lot dimensions, and any recorded easements. You can find this information on your deed, the Fresno County Assessor's website, or your title report. If your property is in a planned development or specific plan area, obtain a copy of the applicable zoning standards. Knowing your exact lot dimensions and zoning designation is essential before you can accurately draw setback lines and place proposed structures on your site plan.
Create Your Site Plan: Use Site Plan Creator to generate an accurate, to-scale residential site plan for your Clovis permit application. Input your lot dimensions, place all existing structures, then add your proposed project. Label all setback distances from property lines, include a north arrow and scale bar, and note any easements. Download your completed site plan as a print-ready PDF. A well-prepared site plan is the most critical document in your permit package and the most common reason applications are returned incomplete.
Assemble and Submit Your Application: Compile your full permit application package, including the completed city permit application form, your site plan, construction drawings or specifications, and any required supporting documents such as HOA approval letters or engineering calculations. Submit your package through the Clovis online permitting portal or in person at the Building and Safety Division counter at City Hall, 1033 Fifth Street. Online submission is recommended for most residential projects and can reduce processing time.
Respond to Plan Review Comments: After your application is reviewed, the city will either approve your permit or issue a correction letter listing items that need to be addressed. Review each comment carefully, revise your site plan or drawings as needed, and resubmit promptly. Responding thoroughly and completely to all correction items in a single resubmittal avoids additional review cycles. Each resubmittal in Clovis typically takes 5 to 10 business days for a secondary review.
Obtain Permit and Schedule Inspections: Once your plans are approved, pay the required permit fees and receive your building permit. Post the permit card visibly on the job site as required by California law. Schedule required inspections through the Clovis online portal or by phone at the appropriate construction milestones, such as foundation, framing, rough electrical or plumbing, and final inspection. Do not cover any work before the required inspection is completed and signed off, as this can result in costly rework or enforcement action.