Planning a Backyard Shed: Permits, Site and Size Checklist

A shed looks like a simple project, and for many people it is. But the problems that spoil a shed build, such as a missing permit, a bad site or a foundation that moves, are mostly decided before you cut any wood. This checklist covers the planning questions in a sensible order. Rules differ widely by place, so treat it as a list of things to check locally, not as legal or engineering advice.

1. Ask what you want the shed to do

Write down what will go inside: a lawn mower, bikes, garden tools, a workbench, a home office. This sets the size, the door width, the shelving and whether you need electricity. Measure the largest item and the widest door opening you need. People most often regret making a shed too small, so allow for shelves and for growth.

2. Check permits, zoning and covenants

These are three different things, and you may need to satisfy all of them.

• Building permit. The model International Building Code (IBC), section 105.2, says a permit is not required for a one-story detached accessory structure used as a tool or storage shed or similar, if its floor area does not exceed 120 square feet. But local governments adopt and change the code. Some set a different size limit, add a height limit, or require a permit for any electrical or plumbing work. The exemption also does not excuse you from other rules.
• Zoning. Zoning rules often set where an accessory building can go, how close it can be to property lines and the house (setbacks), how tall it can be and how much of the lot it can cover.
• Covenants and HOA rules. A homeowners' association or deed restriction may regulate size, materials, color and location.

Call or check the website of your local building or planning department before you buy anything. Ask about the maximum size without a permit, height limit, setbacks, foundation requirements and whether electrical work needs a permit. Write down the answers and the name of the person you spoke to.

3. Find your property lines and easements

Know exactly where your boundary is. A survey, plat or property record can help. Look for easements, which are areas where a utility or neighbor has rights, and do not build on them. Building across a boundary can mean forced removal.

4. Call 811 before you dig

In the United States, call 811 before any digging, including for footings and posts. There is no fee to request it, according to the US pipeline safety regulator PHMSA, and utility owners mark their buried lines. Notice periods vary by state: sources commonly cite at least two working days, and some states require three or more. Mark your planned dig area, wait until each utility has responded, and dig carefully near the markings. Utilities mark only the lines they own, so private lines to things like a garden light or a pool may not be marked. Outside the US, check your local equivalent.

5. Choose the site

• Drainage: pick ground that does not collect water, and slope the soil away from the shed.
• Level: a flat site means less fill and a simpler base.
• Access: can you carry lumber, a wheelbarrow or a lawn mower to and from the door?
• Sun and shade: shade can help keep the inside cool, but trees overhead bring branches, leaves and roots.
• Distance from fences, trees and overhead lines: keep well away from power lines and allow room to work around the walls.
• Neighbors: consider sight lines and noise, even if the rules do not require it.

6. Pick a foundation

The foundation keeps the floor level and the wood off wet ground. Common options include:

• Compacted gravel pad with treated timber frame: often used for small to medium sheds; drains well.
• Concrete blocks or piers: support the floor frame at points; works on fairly level sites.
• Concrete slab: durable and flat, but more work and cost, and harder to change.
• Skids or runners: treated timbers under the floor, which can let a small shed be moved.

Local code may specify what is allowed, especially for larger buildings or for frost, wind or snow conditions. A shed that moves with frost or settles unevenly will have doors that stick. If you are unsure, ask your local building department or a contractor what is typical in your area.

7. Think about wind, snow and weather

Plans designed for one climate may not suit another. In snowy areas the roof must carry snow, and in windy areas the shed should be anchored. Ask your local building department about design loads, and use a plan that matches them, or have one checked by a professional if you are unsure.

8. Decide on electricity or plumbing

Running power to a shed involves buried cable or overhead wiring, correct protection and usually a permit and inspection. Do not DIY mains wiring unless it is legal and you are qualified. Hire a licensed electrician. If you do not need power, a battery light or a solar light may be enough.

9. Make a materials and cost list

List the lumber, sheathing, siding, roofing, fasteners, door hardware, windows and paint. Add a margin for waste. Compare prices from a few suppliers. Include tool hire, delivery, permit fees and disposal of waste. A plan that includes a materials list and a cutting list makes this much easier.

10. Build safely

A shed involves lifting heavy panels, working at height and using power tools. Wear safety glasses, hearing protection and gloves where appropriate, use a stable ladder, and ask for a second person to help with roof sheets and wall frames. Follow tool makers' guidance and see our woodworking safety guide for the basics.

Quick planning checklist

• Purpose, size and door width decided.
• Permit, zoning and HOA rules checked, with notes.
• Boundary and easements confirmed.
• 811 (or local equivalent) request made, markings received.
• Site chosen for drainage, access and clearance.
• Foundation type chosen and checked against local rules.
• Plan matches local wind and snow conditions.
• Materials, tools and budget listed.
• Help arranged for heavy lifting.

When to hire a professional

Consider a licensed contractor, engineer or electrician if your shed is large, sits on a slope, needs a concrete slab you cannot pour yourself, needs power, or if local rules require stamped drawings. Also hire help if you do not feel safe working at height.

Where a plan library can fit

If you want ready-made designs, Ryan Shed Plans (affiliate link) is one option. The vendor says it offers a large library, which it puts at 12,000 designs, in many sizes and roof styles, with materials lists, cutting lists and 3D drawings. That count is the vendor's own claim and I have not checked it. I have not built from these plans, so I cannot say how clear they are. The vendor's sales page uses strong marketing language, so judge any plan by whether it fits your local code and conditions, and read each order screen before paying. Our longer notes are in what to check before you buy.

Disclosure: I earn a commission if you buy through links in this post, at no extra cost to you.