Building Permits: Sheds and Storage Buildings

Building and Zoning Permits: Ask Everett

Each month, Everett, Sr., responds to readers’ questions about outbuildings, from design to construction.

James from Windsor Locks asks:
What permits do I need to add a storage building to my property and how do I go about getting them?

Everett answers: That’s a great question… but since every town is different, there’s no simple answer.  In some towns, a building permit is needed for every structure, including accessory buildings such as sheds.  In others, the need for a building permit is dependent upon the size of the structure.  What’s more, some towns also require a zoning permit, and in cases where a hardship prevents your structure from meeting normal regulations, a variance may be required.

If you are planning on adding a storage building to your property, you will need to check with your town’s building and zoning office prior to construction to see what specific requirements must be met.  Some towns provide this sort of information online, while others will require a phone call or visit to town hall.

In many towns, a building permit is needed for storage buildings. This permit grants legal permission to begin construction in accordance with approved specifications.  To obtain a permit, you will most likely need to submit a plot map of where the building is going, as well as the builder’s name, insurance information, contractor licenses, etc.  Here at The Barn Yard, we provide every customer with an engineered drawing of their building and all other necessary paperwork to obtain a building permit.

Zoning clearance is often given as part of the review of building permit application.  In some towns, however, a separate zoning permit is required.  Either way, factors that may be considered include proximity to wetlands, impact on your septic system or well, height of your structure, and the zoning setbacks of your property.  A “setback” is the required distance between a building and the property line or street.  Some towns allow accessory buildings under a certain size and height to be built as little as 5 feet from the property line, while others require more distance. If circumstances make it difficult for you to comply with zoning regulations, it may be possible to obtain a variance.

Applying for the necessary permit(s) may seem like a nuisance at first, but just remember that the intent is to protect you, your investment, and your community.  Be sure to start the application process as soon as you have all the necessary information, because it can take as long as a month for the actual permit to be issued.  If possible, learn more about your town’s zoning regulations before you begin planning your storage building, as this information may influence your decisions regarding style and size.  To learn more about the many different storage buildings available through The Barn Yard, including specifications, click here.