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Does My Shed Need a Permit? Size Threshold Checker
Under the International Residential Code (R105.2), a one-story detached storage shed of 200 sq ft or less is exempt from a building permit, but many towns amend that to 120 or 100 sq ft, and electrical work, plumbing, setbacks and HOA rules apply regardless of size. Always check your local code before you buy.
Permit size checkerUpdates as you type
Exempt under 120 and 200 sq ft rules
- Floor area
- 120 sq ft
- Under a 100 sq ft exemption
- OVER by 20 sq ft
- Under a 120 sq ft exemption
- exempt by size
- Under a 200 sq ft exemption
- exempt by size
- Height
- 9 ft: within typical limits
- Setback
- 5 ft: meets common minimums
General guidance only. Check your local code: your building department, zoning office and HOA can each set stricter limits than the IRC.
Sheds under the common permit thresholds
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The three thresholds you will run into
| Threshold | Where it comes from |
|---|---|
| 200 sq ft | International Residential Code R105.2 exemption for one-story detached accessory storage sheds, adopted as written in many areas |
| 120 sq ft | The older IRC figure, still used in many local amendments |
| 100 sq ft | A stricter local limit some towns and counties set |
Being exempt from a building permit is not the same as being unregulated. Zoning setbacks, height limits, easements, lot coverage and HOA covenants still apply, and electrical or plumbing work needs its own permit at any size.
Before you buy the kit
- Call or check the website of your building department and ask for the accessory structure rules.
- Ask the zoning office for setbacks from property lines and other buildings.
- Read your HOA covenants if you have one; many require approval of color and placement.
- Call 811 before digging, and check your plat for easements where you cannot build.
The shed permits and setbacks guide walks through each step.
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Frequently asked questions
What size shed can I build without a permit?
Under the International Residential Code, a one-story detached storage shed of 200 sq ft or less is exempt from a building permit. Many jurisdictions amend that to 120 or 100 sq ft, so the real answer is local. A 10x12 (120 sq ft) passes both the 200 and 120 rules; an 8x10 (80 sq ft) passes all three common thresholds. Check your local code.
Do I need a permit to run electricity to a shed?
Yes, almost everywhere, regardless of shed size. Buried wiring to a detached building needs an electrical permit and inspection. Solar-powered lights with no connection to the house avoid that, which is why they are popular for storage sheds.
Does a permit-exempt shed still need to meet setbacks?
Usually yes. Setbacks come from zoning, not the building code, so a shed that needs no building permit can still be required to sit 3 to 5 ft or more from property lines. HOAs can add their own rules on top.
This page is researched guidance, not professional engineering, legal or building-code advice. Sizes, loads and permit rules vary by product and by town: check your local code and the kit manufacturer's instructions before you build.