With RVs, you’re dealing with a vehicle that’s potentially longer than your driveway, taller than your garage door, and far too expensive to leave baking in the sun all year. And though it’s often an afterthought, finding the right place to protect it will play a big part in how long your vehicle lasts.

Across California, metal buildings have become the practical answer to this problem. They can be built tall enough for modern RVs, wide enough to move around inside, and flexible enough to fit properties that weren’t designed with RVs in mind.

If you’re searching for a way to keep your recreational vehicles protected from the harsh CA sun, but don’t know where to start, this guide can help. We’ll walk you through some of the common size options, how much you can expect to pay, and how to choose the right one for your RV project.

How to Pick the Right Size Metal Building for Your RV

Picking the best metal RV building doesn’t have to be a complicated process. A few measurements here and there will tell you what you need to know about the best option for you:

• Measure what you actually own, not what the brochure says

Slide-outs, ladders, roof units, antennas, and rear storage racks rarely show up in official specs. Walk around your RV with a tape measure and include anything that sticks out or sits on top.

• Give yourself more height than you think you need

Pulling into a building shouldn’t feel stressful. Extra interior height makes entry easier and leaves room for rooftop equipment. Door openings should also allow some margin, not just a perfect fit.

• Think beyond parking

Will you want to open compartments? Walk along the sides? Store gear inside? A few extra feet of width turns your building into usable space instead of a tight storage box.

Recommended RV Metal Building Sizes

RV metal buildings come in a wide variety of sizes and configurations. Whether you own a smaller camper or a larger motorhome, there’s something for every traveler. A few of our recommended sizes include:

Building Size	Square Footage	Estimated Cost	Best Application
18×40 RV Metal Building	720 sq. ft.	$7,900 – $14,400	Camper vans, smaller trailers
20×45 RV Metal Building	900 sq. ft.	$9,900 – $18,000	Class C and mid-size RVs
24×50 RV Metal Building	1,200 sq. ft.	$13,200 – $24,000	Large Class A motorhomes
30×50 RV Metal Building	1,500 sq. ft.	$16,500 – $30,000	RV with side clearance
30×60 RV Metal Building	1,800 sq. ft.	$19,800 – $36,000	RV plus storage or workspace

Budgeting for a Metal RV Building in California

The price for metal RV buildings range between $11 and $20 per square foot for a base model. This cost fluctuates based on several factors, including structure size, reinforcements, number of doors and windows, add-ons, accessories, and more. Additionally, site prep, foundation installation, and permitting will also add to the final metal building cost.

As such, it’s difficult to narrow down a specific price. But by working with a trusted metal building provider like Pacific Metal Buildings, you can customize your structure and lock in a preferred price.

Permits in California and Planning Basics for RV Metal Buildings

Permits aren’t exciting, but they are necessary. In California, most RV metal buildings will need official approval of some kind. Keep in mind:

• The 120 square foot rule

Structures under 120 square feet may not require full permits. RV buildings almost always exceed that size, which means permits are typically required.

• Setbacks and layout rules vary by location

Local zoning will play a part in how close you can build to property lines. You’ll want to confirm with your building officials for specific information.

• Engineered drawings are usually required

Many jurisdictions ask for drawings that account for seismic activity, wind, and snow loads. Having these prepared correctly helps avoid delays.

California-Specific Upgrades That Are Worth Considering

California isn’t a singular environment, and what works in one county may not make sense in another. However, a few targeted upgrades can make a noticeable difference depending on where you live:

• Corrosion resistance for coastal properties

Protective coatings and upgraded fasteners help reduce the potential for rust and extend the life of structures near the coast.

• Extra reinforcement in snow regions

In higher CA elevations, snow accumulation is a real concern for structures that are unprepared. Reinforced framing and proper roof design help manage the weight of snow on your structure.

• Ventilation and insulation for heat control

Ventilation and proper insulation help regulate interior temperatures, which can make your RV building more comfortable and cause less heat stress on your vehicle.

Pacific Metal Buildings Is Your Partner for High-Quality RV Metal Buildings

With years of industry experience and a proven track record, Pacific Metal Buildings is proud to be top choice for high-quality RV sheds and Metal Buildings in California. Our structures are made with premium steel components, certified engineering, and attention to detail that shows in every project we take on.

With us by your side, you get:

• RV metal buildings sized around your actual vehicle
• Engineered plans designed for California requirements
• Materials selected for long-term durability
• Guidance through permits and planning basics
• Optional upgrades based on location and use

If you want to protect your RV through all seasons, but don’t know where to start, Pacific Metal Buildings can help you plan it from the ground up. Call us today at +1 (530) 438-2777 for more information, and let’s design your custom structure together.

FAQs

RV owners tend to ask the same questions once they start planning their RV building project. To help you save time and frustration, we’ve gone ahead and answered some of the questions we see the most: