Can I build a studio in my backyard in Sunnyvale?

I'm looking to transform small corner in my backyard into functional home office space and I could really use some advice from who've tackled similar renovations. I'm aiming for modern backyard office studio right here at home! I've got roughly 4-5 square meters that's just sitting there. I'm thinking of putting small office pod in that space. All I really need inside is electricity for my laptop and some lights, along with enough space for my comfy chair and desk. My biggest question is about permits. Since we're chatting casually, let's say I'm in Sunnyvale Cali. Do I actually need a permit from the city for structure this size? I'm also wondering if I can just work with local builder or handyman for this project or if I'd need someone more specialized for my new garden office studio. I've looked into prefab options like Heartland scottsdale, Workpod, Tuff shed but I'm still unclear on what the permit situation would be for those. Any advice you have would be super helpful! Thanks in advance submitted by /u/23Breach [link] [comments]

May 21, 2025 - 11:32

I'm looking to transform small corner in my backyard into functional home office space and I could really use some advice from who've tackled similar renovations. I'm aiming for modern backyard office studio right here at home!

I've got roughly 4-5 square meters that's just sitting there. I'm thinking of putting small office pod in that space. All I really need inside is electricity for my laptop and some lights, along with enough space for my comfy chair and desk.

My biggest question is about permits. Since we're chatting casually, let's say I'm in Sunnyvale Cali. Do I actually need a permit from the city for structure this size? I'm also wondering if I can just work with local builder or handyman for this project or if I'd need someone more specialized for my new garden office studio.

I've looked into prefab options like Heartland scottsdale, Workpod, Tuff shed but I'm still unclear on what the permit situation would be for those.

Any advice you have would be super helpful! Thanks in advance

submitted by /u/23Breach
[link] [comments]