Do I Need a Permit to Build a Shed? (And What to Check Before You Start)
So, you’re ready to build a shed—but one question’s nagging at you:
Do I need a permit for this?
You’re not alone.
Thousands of builders wonder the same thing every year, and the truth is…
It depends.
But don’t worry—we’ll walk you through exactly what to check.
1. The Short Answer: It Depends (But Don’t Panic)
Every city, town, and country has slightly different building rules.
But the key is this:
Smaller, simple sheds often don’t require a permit.
Larger or more complex ones might. But either way—it’s manageable.
Let’s break it down.
2. 3 Main Things That Affect Whether You Need a Permit
🧱 Size
Most places allow a shed up to 100–120 sq ft (9–11 m²) without a permit.
Go beyond that? You might need approval.
Examples:
🇺🇸 In most U.S. states – 120 sq ft is the limit
🇬🇧 In the UK – under 15 m² is usually fine if it’s not too tall
🇪🇺 In Europe – varies more, often 10–12 m² threshold
🔨 Use
If your shed is for storage, gardening tools, or bikes—usually OK.
But if it’s:
- A workshop with electricity
- A home office
- A guest room
…then the rules may change.
📍 Location
Placing your shed close to fences, neighboring buildings, or on front-facing property lines can trigger restrictions.
Check for:
- Setback rules (e.g. 1 meter from fence)
- Distance from streets or public spaces
- Whether your property is in a protected zone
What’s Usually Allowed Without a Permit
While every region is different, these are common patterns:
✅ Sheds under 100–120 sq ft (9–11 m²)
✅ Built at ground level (no elevated platform)
✅ No plumbing or permanent electricity
✅ Height under 2.5 m (8 ft)
✅ Used for non-habitable storage
💬 Check if your region calls this “permitted development” or “exempt construction”.
4. How to Check Local Rules (Without Headaches)
Here’s how to quickly find out:
- Google:
"shed permit [your city or region]" - Look for PDF documents or planning portals
- Call or email the local building department—seriously, they help
- Ask:
- “What’s the max shed size without a permit?”
- “How far must it be from my property line?”
- “Is electrical installation allowed?”
5. Other Considerations (That People Forget)
- 🏘️ HOA or housing association rules
– May have style or location restrictions - 📐 Foundation type
– Pouring a concrete slab sometimes triggers rules, even if the shed is small - 🌳 Tree removal or land slope?
– Might need clearance - 🌍 Protected land or historical zones?
– Check local maps or call
6. Can I Still Use a Plan If a Permit Is Required?
Absolutely—and in fact, a good shed plan helps you:
- Provide dimensions to the municipality
- Show compliance with structure and layout
- Avoid delays or rejections
✅ CraftFrame plans are detailed and professional enough to submit with most permit applications.
7. Bottom Line: Plan First. Check Early. Build Smart.
Permits don’t have to be scary.
Start by choosing the size and purpose of your shed. Then check your local rules.
Then build with confidence.
Shed kits don’t come with support. But plans?
Plans are your blueprint for success—even when red tape shows up.
🚀 Ready to Build Smarter (With or Without a Permit)?
Whether your shed needs approval or not—CraftFrame plans help you build clean, clear, and right the first time.
🧰 Easy to follow.
📏 Permit-ready.
🔨 Built to be built.
