Do You Need a Permit for a Shed in Florida?

Whether you need a permit for a shed in Florida depends on three things: the shed's size, the type of foundation, and your county's rules. As a general rule, sheds over 120 square feet require an accessory structure permit in most Florida counties. Smaller sheds may be exempt from the building permit requirement but still must comply with zoning setbacks. Here's how it works across the state, from Hillsborough County to Miami-Dade County.

What Size Shed Requires a Permit in Florida?

The Florida Building Code allows counties to exempt certain small structures from the building permit requirement. The most common threshold is 120 square feet — sheds at or under this size are often exempt from a building permit, provided they meet other conditions. However, this exemption varies by county:

• Hillsborough County: Sheds up to 120 sq ft on a non-permanent foundation are generally exempt from a building permit
• Pinellas County: Similar 120 sq ft threshold, but municipality rules may differ
• Orange County: Sheds up to 100 sq ft may be exempt, depending on the zoning district
• Miami-Dade County: Stricter rules — smaller sheds may still require a permit due to wind-load requirements

Even when a shed is exempt from a building permit, it almost always must comply with zoning regulations — setbacks from property lines, maximum lot coverage, and height restrictions. A shed that meets the size exemption but violates a setback rule is still a code violation.

What About Pre-Built or Portable Sheds?

Pre-built sheds (the kind delivered on a truck and placed in your yard) are treated the same as site-built sheds for permit purposes. If it's over the size threshold, it needs a permit regardless of how it was constructed. The foundation type matters too — a shed on a permanent concrete slab is more likely to require a permit than one sitting on gravel or skids, even if it's under 120 square feet.

Some homeowners assume that because a shed is "portable" or "temporary," it doesn't need a permit. That's not how Florida counties see it. If it's on your property and exceeds the size threshold, you need a permit. If you're also building a carport, the same engineering and wind-load rules apply.

What Are the Setback Rules for Sheds in Florida?

Every Florida county has setback requirements that govern how close a shed can be to your property lines. Common setback rules include:

• Rear yard: Typically 5–10 feet from the rear property line
• Side yard: Typically 5–7.5 feet from the side property line
• Front yard: Sheds are generally not allowed in front yards
• Easements: Sheds cannot be placed within utility or drainage easements

In Pasco County, the standard accessory structure setback is 5 feet from rear and side property lines. Polk County has similar requirements. Your county's zoning department can tell you the exact setbacks for your property's zoning district — this is separate from the building department and takes a quick phone call.

How Much Does a Shed Permit Cost in Florida?

Shed permits in Florida are relatively affordable — see our complete permit cost breakdown for comparisons across all project types. For a standard residential storage shed, expect to pay $75 to $250 depending on the county, shed size, and whether engineering plans are required. Larger sheds or those with electrical wiring need additional sub-permits that increase the cost. If you're planning any electrical work in your shed, you'll need a separate electrical permit.

Can You Put a Shed in an HOA Community?

HOA rules for sheds are often stricter than county code. Many HOAs prohibit sheds entirely, limit them to specific sizes and materials, or require architectural review board approval before you build or place one. Check your CC&Rs before ordering a shed or applying for a permit — if your HOA doesn't allow sheds, a county building permit won't override the HOA restriction.

What Happens If You Build a Shed Without a Permit?

If you build a shed that requires a permit and skip the process, you face the same consequences as any unpermitted construction — code enforcement fines, an order to remove the shed, and after-the-fact permit fees at double the normal rate. Sheds are one of the most commonly reported unpermitted structures because they're visible to neighbors. Our guide on building without a permit in Florida covers the full range of consequences.

When you sell your home, an unpermitted shed can show up as a discrepancy between the property appraiser's records and the actual improvements on the lot. This can complicate the sale and require resolution before closing.

Skip the headache — tell us about your project and we'll match you with a licensed permit pro in your county.