Permit requirements are essential to obtain before building a shed with Glick Structures in Pennsylvania, but different municipalities have varying requirements. You will likely need a permit depending on your shed’s size, use, and location. When permits are needed, they’ll need to be obtained before construction starts. If you don’t get a permit, you may face fines, stop-work orders, or forced removals from your township. Below are some factors that will determine whether you need a permit for your shed.
Shed Size
In Pennsylvania, there are different size requirements for a permit, depending on your location. Generally, smaller sheds used for basic garden storage are exempt from needing a permit, but occasionally, a municipality will require one.
PA UCC Requirements
The Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (PA UCC) is the statewide building code that must be followed by all builders in Pennsylvania. This code, under Chapter 403, exempts garages or sheds less than 1000 square feet in size from needing a permit. You will need a permit if the shed is larger than 1000 square feet. While this is the statewide code, local jurisdictions are allowed to amend provisions of the PA UCC. We recommend you confirm the required permits with your local township.
Additional Size Requirements
Many jurisdictions have amended the PA UCC provision to require permits if they are larger than 200 square feet. Some jurisdictions will set it at 100 or 120 square feet, or may require permits for any additional structure, a garage or shed, built on your property. Generally, in our experience, sheds under 100 square feet don’t require permits.
Your Shed’s Use
The intended use of the shed will also impact whether or not you need permits. If the shed will only be used for basic storage, then a permit may not be required. If you are using the shed for a workshop, office, or other functional space, we’ve found that you will likely need a building permit. Your local zoning department needs to know if you are using the shed as a living or business space, so you can get the right permits and inspections for it.
Electrical and Plumbing
If you are hooking up plumbing or electrical to the shed, you will need building permits. Permits are usually required if running utilities to your shed or garage. In addition to building permits, you may need to obtain individual electrical and plumbing permits as well. Always double-check with your local jurisdiction for all permit requirements.
Zoning Permits
In addition to building permits, you will have to make sure the land is zoned properly for a shed to be built, which can require a zoning permit. We’ve noticed that if a structure is exempt from needing a building permit, then a zoning permit is generally required, especially if the shed is close to property lines. Local zoning laws will determine where on your property you can build the shed. A zoning permit will document that you are complying with your township’s zoning ordinances. Every Pennsylvania municipality has its own zoning laws. You can go to your local municipality’s office or website to find the zoning map and regulations for your project.
Some Local Requirements
Urban counties, like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, may have stricter regulations than rural counties. For example, in Philadelphia, sheds under 120 square feet don’t require permits, but those between 120 and 200 square feet require both building and zoning permits. Zoning permits are also required if your shed is located in the front or side of your yard. Lower Paxton Township requires zoning permits for all sheds and follows the PA UCC’s size requirements for building permits. In Mainheim Township, building permits are required for sheds 400 square feet and larger. Since requirements vary across Pennsylvania, we recommend always verifying the permits needed in your area before breaking ground to ensure your compliance.
Get Started with Glick Structures
When applying for a permit, you’ll generally need to provide information like a site plan, distance from property lines, dimensions, and intended use to your local municipal office. Once you get your permits, you can build your shed on your property. Glick Structures builds high-quality, customized sheds for homeowners across Pennsylvania, ensuring that you are following all local regulations. We offer many different shed styles, and you can design a custom shed with our 3D Builder. Check out our recent projects to see what we can do for you. View our inventory of pre-built sheds that are ready for delivery. If you’re ready to get started, contact us today.
