What Size Shed Requires a Permit

It’s always exciting to have a shed in your yard. After learning the shed idea from your neighbor or a friend, you finally plan on putting up yours.

Apparently, we are required by the law to get permits before doing any construction. A permit is a type of approval by the government or private organizations. And you need to pay some cash for the permit, which varies depending on your local authority.

As that’s the case, one thing you may be figuring out is what size shed requires a permit. Read on and learn everything about construction permits.

What Size Shed Requires a Permit?

If you are building a shed of more than 100 square feet, you need a permit. However, this size may vary depending on the state or the municipality.

In some countries or cities, you may learn that all shed sizes are charged for approval. On the other hand, some authorities may have various adjustments in terms of payments and size.

With that said, it’s wise to confirm with your local authority before planning on the shed budget and building.

Apart from the size, other factors can require you to have a permit. Take a look;

• You are building the second shed in the yard.
• You will have electrical and plumbing done in the shed.
• You plan to convert it into a living room.
• You intend to do business in the shed.
• Zoning regulations require you to have a permit.

Getting a Permit for a Prebuilt Shed

Do I need a permit for a prebuilt shed?

You may have forgotten to get the permit before building the shed. In most cases, neighbors report to the authority or the relevant department once they learn you don’t have a permit.

Worry less! You can get a retroactive permit. Retroactive permits are obtained as the normal permits.

The local zoning and planning offices will send their inspector once you have applied and paid for the permit.

However, you must provide the architectural, structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical sketch. Unfortunately, if they don’t meet the standard, you will have to rebuild the shed.

Additionally, if you have to purchase a portable shed, you will have to visit the offices with all the necessary documents before laying its foundation and fixing everything.

See also: How to convert a shed into a chicken coop

The Process of Getting the Permit

The process of getting the permit is very simple. Modern technology has led to quick and easy operations. You can apply through the portal and perform online transactions to pay for the permit.

Here is the process;

Step 1: Prepare all the necessary paperwork

You need the architectural, structural, and other necessary drawings. In simple, you will have to present the yard and the shed dimensions.

Moreover, you can include the sewerage position and all other necessary documents. Note that the permit charges may vary depending on the lot value and the estimated budget.

Step 2: Visit the zoning and planning offices or portal

If they have a portal, you will have to fill in the forms and upload images of all the necessary documents. Afterward, the system will process and give feedback on the cash you need to pay.

After payments, the office will communicate with you to schedule an appointment with their inspector.

See also: Best DIY storage shed kits

Step 3: Prepare the area and avail yourself during the inspection.

Clear the area of all disruption and answer the inspector’s questions. Afterward, the inspector will take the feedback to the office.

Step 4: Wait for the response and act

You will receive the permit if your plan meets all the regulations. And if changes need to be made, you can correct and submit the documents again for inspection.

See also: Budget-friendly shed base ideas

What Happens If You Build Something Without Planning Permission?

According to the various local authorities ‘ regulations, you need a permit to build a shed. Failure to get a permit for building a shed may lead to a warning

Usually, a warning will require you to stop the construction until you obtain all the necessary documents. However, there are some consequences you may face if you ignore the authorities.

Take a look;

1. Fines

You may get fined a certain amount of money daily if you ignore visiting the offices to submit all required documents.

2. Jail

You may be jailed if you fail to pay the fines. Most cities and municipalities have set jail as an option for payment of fines. Depending on the amount charged, you can serve two weeks or more in jail.

3. Home Owners Association Fines

HOAs are private organizations that set regulations for the neighborhood. If you fail to follow their regulations, you may be fined.

4. Liens

The government may decide to own your property until you pay the fines or submit the required paperwork.

See also: How to waterproof a flat shed roof

FAQs About What Size Shed Requires a Permit

You cannot build a shed without obtaining a permit from the municipality. But in some states, you can build smaller size sheds without the approval.

So, what size shed requires a permit? The size depends on your local municipality, government, or private organization’s regulations.