Self Building

Ask an Expert: Do I Need a Building Permit for a Shed?

A small 6×8 or 8×8 shed can be built without a building permit.

Updated on

January 10, 2023

Do I need a building permit for a shed?

If you are like many homeowners, you might be asking yourself whether you need to obtain a building permit before you start building a shed within your compound.

The answer to this question varies depending on zoning laws and restrictions available in your particular city or state.

Does a shed need a building permit?

In most cities, you do not need to obtain a building permit for a small (6×8 or 8×8) shed. However, it is important to confirm this exemption with your local authority to avoid penalty and demolition charges in case of violation of city by-laws.

That being said, construction of bigger storage sheds requires a building permit since these structures are usually categorized as large building projects.

Generally, a building permit for a shed is required based on:

Building size: As stated above, you may need to obtain a building permit for a shed that exceeds a certain size or height.

In some instances, there may even be legal restrictions regarding the kind of foundation that you need to dig up for the structure.

Placement restrictions: Local building codes may have specific directives on how close a shed can be placed relative to the main house, fence or other buildings.

In some cities or states, a storage shed cannot be attached to a home, while in other zones sheds can only be built in the backyard.

Weather patterns: Regions that experience adverse weather conditions such as hurricanes and tornadoes require permits for construction of sheds to ensure the structures are anchored to the ground to withstand heavy winds and storm.

Electricity and wiring: You need a building permit for a shed if you plan to wire electricity through the structure.

Intended use of the shed: You need a permit from the local zoning department in case you want to build a shed that will serve as a working or living space.

The following factors also determine whether or not you need a building permit for a shed: –

Local building codes

Most cities and counties have adopted their individual building codes. Although these codes are based from the nationally recognized International Building Code (IBC), some areas have approved local changes that are more restrictive.

For instance, while the IBC allows homeowners to build one-detached accessory that can serve as a shed without a permit, some local amendments do not allow this indulgence.

Some jurisdictions may even require a permit for all types of sheds. It is important, therefore, to consult your local officials to avoid possible penalties.

Zoning codes

Zoning codes deal with the regulation of location, aesthetic and the size of a shed. The codes have the powers to allow or restrict any of these features.

Local zoning codes often differ with local building codes.

For example, your local building code may not require a permit for a 100 square-foot shed. On the other hand, the zoning codes may not allow sheds over 80 square feet within ten feet of the exterior wall of the main house.

Mandatory inspections

All works authorized through a building permit must be approved by a building inspector. Every city has its own inspection procedure and no matter where you live you must ensure that your shed is inspected if a permit was required.

If you forget to schedule an inspection, your permit may become invalid – and the local authority has the power to penalize you for building without approval.