Imagine this, you are on the verge of ordering a prefabricated shed when it hits you—“wait, this project may need a permit first.” And so you put down the phone, then only to realize—it is such a discrete structure, no one cares if you erect it in your property. You’ve heard before that authorities exclude sheds from buildings they painstakingly review. But as you press the call button again, it comes to your senses—“so why do some people pay fines and bid goodbye to their shed for violating zoning codes?” 

If this happens, the smart move is don’t call the shed manufacturer yet. Instead, have a phone conversation or personal one-on-one talk with an officer from the building and zoning division of your local government. The sure “yes” or definite “no” is certainly in this important step. Also, this will give you hints on how and why your local state government is stricter or amenable in its requirements for sheds. And one more thing, better be safe than sorry on guessing games with an investment such as prefab shed.

The probably “not” required

The idea that a prefab shed is not required to get a building permit does exist—e.g. in Seattle and some parts of Virginia and Maryland. This is possible if your prefab shed has the features they approve to be exempted. 

Typically these features pertain to how small a portion of land will be used and if it is not in an unsafe area. It also has something to do with the shed’s built—freestanding or attached, number of levels, and type of ground. In Seattle, you are fine to go if the shed is far from an environmental critical area (ECA). Also, if it is freestanding on top of the soil or concrete slab that is less than 120 square feet. In some parts of Virginia, an owner-builder only gets a permit if the shed occupies more than 256 square feet. On the other side, Carroll County in Maryland, exempts a mobile prefab shed with 150 square feet of land area. 

Take note that a prefab shed is not exempted if there’s added stuff in it like, for example, electrical wiring. Don’t forget also that these exemptions are applicable for the approval of the shed’s structure only. 

The possible “yes” 

When inspectors check an accessory structure, they typically review its architecture, position within a property, and look within a zoning district. They also naturally examine if it meets the safety standards according to their State’s laws.  

Since a prefab shed occupies a land area, even if it does need not a building permit, it is still subject to having a zoning permit. It may also need a certification from a homeowners association or if applicable, approval from the environmental compliance agency. Furthermore, most local governments are highly concerned about setbacks. It is a must that an accessory building has safe distances from the property line, right of way, or protected area. 

Some local zoning laws are also specific on space allotted for taller structures, the number of buildings in one’s property, area for parking, etc. The complexity of details certainly depends on what type of zoning codes a state adopted—Euclidean, form-based, or hybrid? 

Sources:

• http://www.seattle.gov/sdci/permits/common-projects/sheds
• https://www.carrollcountymd.gov/government/directory/public-works/permits-inspections/residential-projects/installing-a-pre-fab-shed/
• https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DPS/Process/rci/residential-sheds.html
• https://www.cityofberkeley.info/Planning_and_Development/Land_Use_Division/Difference_between_a_Zoning_Permit_and_a_Building_Permit.aspx
• https://lpcorp.com/blog/do-you-need-a-building-permit-for-a-storage-shed
• Virginia https://www.alansfactoryoutlet.com/blog/bid/92896/do-i-need-a-building-permit-for-a-storage-shed
• Virginia https://www.bylerbarns.com/need-permit-build-shed/
• https://recode.la/updates/news/types-zoning-codes

If you have some other concerns, like whether you can build a shed next to your neighbor’s fence or how tall a shed should be, contact us at Lion Buildings.

It is understandable why people try to avoid building permits like the plague. It not only costs money, but it also takes too much time to get one. But once your building code officials determine that you need a permit, then you need to get it. 

The good news is that there are some exemptions, and cities normally provide lists of the things that no longer need permits. However, most people still find it confusing, as one of the things they want to find out is if they need a permit for a gazebo in Texas?

If you are one of these people, then you are in luck. This article will help answer this simple yet very important question. 

So, let’s dive in.

What is a gazebo?

Let us first define what a gazebo is since the issuance of permits depends on what the structure is and how big it should be to get an exemption.

A gazebo is an open-air, pavilion-style structure, roofed but open on all sides. Its purpose is to give shade from the sun, rain, and heat. It is a place to rest, have a nice chit-chat with family and friends, or commune with nature. It also serves to beautify your property.

Gazebos also go by other names like pagoda, shed, tea house, or kiosk. 

Do I need a permit for a Gazebo?

Well, it depends.

While gazebos are not considered buildings because they do not have walls, you do need permits before you start constructing a gazebo. That is if your gazebo does not exceed 10 feet by 10 feet.

Also, you will probably need to apply for more than one permit when building a gazebo. You will need a permit for electricity, running water, a grill, speakers, or TV. 

Conclusion

While most people think that it is quite a hassle to get building permits, you will be pleasantly surprised by how easy it is. Contact your local office so you can get a better understanding of what permits you need. Remember, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Talk to us at Lion Buildings for your gazebo construction, concrete, or even steel building projects.

With all the required documents and fees, it seems like you cannot make a move without first seeking approval from the city where your property lies. Most people begin to wonder whether there are home improvements they can do without a permit in Texas.

Surprise, surprise! There are some projects where permits are not necessary. That does not mean, however, that you have free rein on the type of construction you can do. Whether it’s a poured cement project or a metal carport project, you need to comply with the standard building codes and other ordinances in the city you are in. 

Exemptions

Here is the work exemption for residential buildings.

1. A fence that stands 8 feet high or below is exempted unless the property is in a flood-prone area.

2. For a one-story accessory detachment to be exempt, it should be at most 15 feet in height, 200 square feet or below of floor area, not to be used as a living space, without plumbing, and is not in a hazard area.

3. For retaining walls, it should not be more than 4 feet in height unless it is within a flood-prone area or supporting a surcharge.

4. A driveway or a sidewalk does not need a permit unless it is located in a public right of way.

5. Playground equipment is exempt.

6. Painting works, carpeting, cabinets, tiling, and countertops do not need permits.

      7. Installing or replacing an overhead garage door in the garage is exempt.

8. Foundation repair, as long as it does not exceed 64 sq. ft., does not need a permit.

9. Roof decking that is 64 sq. ft. or below is exempt.

10. Sliding doors should not be more than 64 sq. ft. to be exempted.

    11. If you need to repair your floor decking, you would not have to worry about securing permits as long as it does not exceed            64 sq. ft.

12. Replacing existing asphalt shingles with the same is exempt.

13. Building officials in your area may determine other works that may or may not need permits.

Conclusion

When starting a building project, the most important thing is to ask your building officials if your proposed construction work needs a permit. This ensures your work runs smoothly without the worry of being fined hovering over your mind.