Shed Permit in USA: Complete Guide

Do I need a permit to build a shed? You probably just want to get some extra storage or a workshop in your backyard. But now you're unsure if you need to get permission first. Shed permit laws can be confusing because they're different depending on where you live.

Don't worry! This guide will take you through all of it. We'll discuss when you're required to have a permit, each state's regulations, and what will happen if you skip the permit process.

By the end of this, you'll be clear about exactly what you should do so you can get started building hassle-free.

When Do You Need a Construction Permit?

Prior to commencing the construction of your shed, you ought to determine whether a permit is required. Most areas require a construction permit based on the size, height, and purpose of the shed.

The following are some of the standard rules governing when a permit is necessary:

1. Size Counts: Most municipalities require a permit if your shed is over 100 to 200 square feet.
2. Height Restrictions: If your shed is over a certain height (usually 8 to 12 feet), you might need approval.
3. Foundation Type: Sheds that have permanent foundations (like concrete slabs) usually require a permit, whereas smaller sheds placed on gravel or skids may not.
4. Electricity & Plumbing: If you're planning to put in wiring, outlets, or plumbing, you will more than likely require a permit.
5. Zoning Laws: Some areas have laws that dictate how close your shed is allowed to be to property lines, fences, or other buildings.

For example, in Somerville, New Jersey, the rules for obtaining a construction permit for a shed or detached garage are clearly spelled out. Regardless of the project size, a zoning permit is required. A construction permit is also required if any of the following apply:

1. Size: The building's size is over 200 square feet.
2. Height: The structure is greater than 10 feet in height.
3. Utilities: The structure has any utilities.

It is notable that performing work without the necessary permits can result in fines of up to $2,000.

Rules and Requirements for Shed

Browse our table to find out more about shed permits in USA, on the local government level.

Before you build a shed, you need to follow some rules so that it meets the local building codes. These rules vary based on the location, but the following are some general guidelines based on Somerville, New Jersey:

1. Number of Sheds: Two detached sheds are permitted on a lot that contains a one or two-family residence.
2. Distance from Your House: Your shed must be 10 feet away from your house or equivalent to its height, whichever is larger.
3. Lot Coverage: The total area of your shed and other structures cannot exceed the allowed percentage of your zone (for example, 35% in R-1 zones and 40% in R-2 and R-3 zones).
4. Shed Size and Height: The shed cannot be taller than 16 feet, and the floor area cannot be more than 20% of your home's floor area or 600 square feet, whichever is larger.
5. Foundation Regulations: Your shed requires a 4-inch stone base as a foundation if it's 100 to 200 square feet. Any sheds larger may require a firmer base.

Setback Requirements (Distance from Property Lines)

1. 3-Foot Rule: If your shed is smaller than 144 square feet, no wider or longer than 12 feet, and shorter than 9 feet, then it must be at least 3 feet away from property lines.
2. 5-Foot Rule: Your shed is under 500 square feet but doesn't meet the 3-foot rule requirements, so it must be at least 5 feet away from property lines.
3. Larger Sheds: If the shed is more than 500 square feet, the distance regulations vary according to your zone:
4. R-1 Zone: 15 feet from the rear and 10 feet from the sides.
5. R-2 and R-3 Zones: 12.5 feet from the rear and 8 feet from the sides.

These are Somerville, NJ-specific regulations, but most towns have similar rules. Always call your local building department before you start your shed project to avoid future issues.

Where Do I Get a Shed Permit?

You can get a shed permit at your local building department or zoning office, usually found on your city or county government website. To apply, you'll generally need to submit a site plan, shed design, and permit fee. Some areas have online applications, and some only take in-person applications.

Approval can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on your location. It's always best to call your local office to confirm the requirements before you build.

Shed Permit Requirements in the USA

Shed permit laws vary state by state, and even from city to city and county to county. Some demand a permit for any shed, and others only if the shed is over a certain size.

Some of the general laws in different states include:

1. Washington: You need a permit if the shed is over 120 square feet, taller than one story, attached to another building, or near a protected area.
2. North Carolina: In Black Mountain, sheds that shed over 12 feet in any direction need a building permit and zoning approval. Smaller sheds need zoning approval.
3. South Dakota: A permit is required in Sioux Falls before building or putting a shed on a lot. Sheds under 200 square feet need a simple site plan.
4. New York: In some areas of Upstate New York, sheds smaller than 120 to 144 square feet may not need a permit, but the rules vary by municipality.

These are just a few examples, and codes differ depending on your city or county. Always call your local building department before you start your shed project to avoid delays or penalties.

What is the Penalty if You Don't Get a Shed Permit?

If you build a shed without a permit, you may have to pay fines, stop work, or even tear down the shed. Fines can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on where you live. In some states, like California, contractors' fines can be as much as $8,000 per violation.

Some authorities will issue a stop-work order, halting your progress until you get a permit. In the worst-case scenario, you can be ordered to take down the shed if it wasn't built in accordance with zoning laws. To avoid problems, always contact your local building department before you start your shed project.

How Much Does a Shed Permit Cost?

A shed permit's price varies by location and shed size. Most shed permits range from $50 to $400. Some municipalities charge a flat rate, while others calculate the fee based on your shed's value.

For example, in Utah, a shed project with a value of $501 to $2,000 has at least a $23.50 permit fee, with extra costs for higher values. Since prices vary, your best option is to contact your local building department to find out what you'll need to pay.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Shed Permit?

The time to get a shed permit differs depending on your location and shed size. You can get a permit in a few days if you have a small shed and it meets all the zoning requirements. But if it's big or needs other approvals, it can take a few weeks.

Online submissions are accepted by some cities, which can speed up the process. Make sure all required paperwork, like a shed design and site plan, is prepared prior to submission to avoid delays.

How Long Is a Shed Permit Valid?

Shed permits usually expire after 1 year or 365 days. When your permit expires, you might need to file an application for an extension or new permit that could entail added expenses.

There are a few places that allow extensions, but it varies depending on your local building department.

What's the Biggest Shed I Can Have Without a Shed Permit?

The maximum shed size not needing a permit differs in relation to local building codes. In many areas, you can have a shed of up to 120 square feet without needing a permit. Some have a higher threshold.

For example, in Harris County, Texas, you may not need a permit for a shed that is smaller than 150 square feet, as long as it is used for storage. Since rules vary, it is always a good idea to check with your local building department before you start construction.

Conclusion

In short, shed permits spare you fines and legal hassles. In most regions, sheds under 120 square feet don't need one, but rules vary. If you build without a permit, you could be fined or even forced to remove the shed. The fee ranges from $50 to $400, and approval takes days to weeks. Most permits expire after 365 days. To stay on the safe side, always check with your local building department before you build.