How big of a shed can I build without a permit in MN?

Author: Dr. Otha Romaguera  |  Last update: Tuesday, July 1, 2025

A building permit is not required for a shed 200 square feet in area or less. (If the building exceeds 200 square feet, it should be treated as a new detached garage.)

What's the biggest size shed without permit?

The quick and simple answer is: you usually don't need a permit if the shed is 120 square feet or less. In California, most jurisdictions have adopted the 120 square foot rule. If your shed area is larger than 120 square feet, it needs a building permit.

What can a homeowner do without a permit in MN?

A Building Permit is not required for:

Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work.

How many sheds can I have on my property in MN?

Typically a maximum of 2 accessory buildings are permitted including any attached garage, detached garage, and shed. Some residential developments do not permit any detached garages or accessory buildings/sheds. Architectural style, siding, roof material, and roof pitch must be compatible with the home.

What is the largest shed without planning permission?

How big can I build a shed without planning permission?
  • The shed must occupy less than 50% of the total area occupied by your property.
  • The total floor area of the shed doesn't exceed 15m2.
  • The height of the eaves of the shed doesn't exceed 2.5 metres and the building is single storey.

How Big Of A Shed Can I Build Without A Permit? - CountyOffice.org

What is the largest shed without a foundation?

Typically, any shed larger than 6×8 or 8×8 is going to require a foundation. However, a foundation is a good idea even for small sheds, because the right foundation, installed correctly, will protect your shed and extend the life and useability.

What is the smallest shed you can build without a permit?

Permit Requirements for Sheds Vary by Location

In most areas, you generally do not need a building permit for a small shed, such as a 6×8 or an 8×10.

Do I need a building permit for a shed in Minnesota?

A building permit is required for a shed, outbuilding, or any accessory structure that is larger than 200 square feet.

How big is a 200 sq foot shed?

20 ft. W x 10 ft. D Metal Shed with 2-Doors and 4-Vents (200 sq. ft. )

Can I put a shed on my property and live in it?

Is It Really Possible To Turn A Shed Into A Living Place? Yes, it is. However, zoning regulations and zoning codes may not allow you to legally live in it full-time. Obtaining a shed building permit doesn't take much time.

How big can you build without a permit in Minnesota?

Work exempt from permit.

Building: 1. One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet; (A land use permit is required when exceeding 120 square feet.) 2. Fences not over seven feet high; 3.

What happens if you build something without a permit?

For example, if you build without a permit in California, homeowners and contractors are liable, and both need to pay fines. According to California Contractors State License Board (CSLB), contractors must pay up to $5,000 per violation and are subject to disciplinary action.

Can a homeowner do their own electrical work in MN?

Property owners may also personally perform mechanical, plumbing, and electrical on property they own and occupy. Exceptions: Rental Properties - Owners may perform building trade work. However, all plumbing, electrical & mechanical work shall be performed by a licensed contractor.

How big is a 120 sq ft shed?

10 ft. W x 12 ft.

How many sheds can I have in my backyard?

In California, you are allowed to build two tool and storage sheds, not bigger than 120 square feet of floor area. In Florida, if you live in a rural county, you can build as many sheds as you want.

What is the maximum size of a shed?

Common rules

Sheds should be single storey with a maximum eaves' height of 2.5m. Sheds should be a maximum of three metres highunless they have either an apex or dual-pitched roof, in which case they can be up to four metres high. There should be no raised platforms, balconies, or verandas on sheds.

Is a 12x16 shed too big?

A 12x16 shed gives you a lot of room for storage. A four-wheeler, ATV, riding mower, or similar equipment will fit easily with room to spare. Motorcycles and small vehicles also fit, depending on the design and height of the shed.

How much would it cost to build a 200 sq ft shed?

For a 200 square foot shed, you generally will be looking at a cost between $4,000 and $35,000. However, this will depend on what type of shed you choose and whether you build it yourself or hire a professional. There are also added costs to consider when building a shed, such as these additional costs: Permits.

How big is a 40x60 shed?

A 40x60 metal building is a solid choice for any property and provides 2,400 square feet of customizable space to satisfy many end uses, including shops, garages, barns, and even modern homes.

Do sheds require a foundation?

Typically, small sheds in the size range of 6×8 or smaller do not require a foundation. However, we suggest placing all sheds on a foundation for structure and ventilation purposes.

Do I need a permit to drywall my garage?

You'll likely need a permit since this project may require soil grading to avoid drainage issues. Repairing your floor may be more cost-efficient than replacing it if grading is necessary. No permit may be required to hang drywall on exposed wooden wall studs in your garage.

Is a storage shed considered a permanent structure?

If the shed has a concrete foundation, is built with long-lasting materials like steel or wood, and is designed for extended use, it's a permanent fixture. Sheds with solid, anchored foundations and durable roofs will be classified as permanent, particularly if they're intended for storage, living, or workspaces.

How big is a 200 square foot shed?

10x20 – 200 sq ft.

wide sheds require pilot cars when being transported.

What is the largest size shed without planning permission?

After putting it to the test in various backyards and gardens, we've found that the largest shed without permit is around 120 square feet. This size limit seems to be a sweet spot for many local authorities, allowing homeowners to add a functional structure without overstepping regulatory boundaries.

What is the biggest shed you can build without planning?

So, how big can you go without planning permission? Your shed must be single storey. It mustn't cover more than 50% of your garden. The floor area mustn't be more than 15m2 (although you might be able to get away with up to 30m2 if other conditions are also met).

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