Thinking of Building a Shed in Florida? Here’s What You Need to Know About Permits
No. Florida does not have a uniform, statewide shed size exemption. The answer depends entirely on your specific county and whether your property sits in a flood zone. There is no single rule that applies to the whole state.
Here are the actual, real-world thresholds based on current local ordinances and the latest state law.
1. The New State Law (HB 803) Does Not Exempt Most Sheds
As of July 1, 2026, Florida law allows homeowners to skip permits for certain projects under $7,500. However, the law explicitly classifies sheds as "structural work."
Because HB 803 contains a strict exclusion for structural work, the new $7,500 exemption generally does not apply to sheds . You cannot use the cost of the shed to bypass the permit requirement in most jurisdictions.
2. The Real Local Thresholds (By County)
Since the state does not set one limit, you must check your county. Here are specific examples of what actually triggers a permit:
- Sumter County: Sheds under 100 sq. ft. do not require a building permit .
- Jupiter (Palm Beach County): One-story detached sheds 120 sq. ft. or less are exempt from a building permit (though you may still need zoning approval) .
- Hernando County: Sheds with 120 sq. ft. or less no longer require a zoning permit, but this does not waive building code requirements if electrical or plumbing is involved .
- Seminole County: Sheds 200 sq. ft. or less purchased as a pre-built kit from a hardware store may qualify for an exemption, but only if they are not in a flood zone .
- Pasco County: Sheds 150 sq. ft. or less are exempt only if they are DBPR-approved and outside a flood hazard area .
- Hillsborough County: Sheds over 150 sq. ft. require a full permit submittal with engineered plans .
3. The Absolute Dealbreakers (When You Always Need a Permit)
Regardless of the size of the shed or the county you live in, you will need a permit if any of the following are true:
- You are in a Flood Zone: This is the most common reason exemptions are denied. If your property is in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), you likely need a permit and possibly an elevation certificate .
- You want Electricity or Plumbing: If you run power to the shed, install lights, or add a sink, you must get an electrical or plumbing permit. HB 803 does not exempt electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work .
- It is a Site-Built Shed (Over Certain Sizes): If you are building the shed from scratch on-site, most counties require signed and sealed engineering plans once you exceed the small exemption threshold (often around 100-150 sq. ft.) .
The General Rule: Size Matters
In Florida, the primary factor determining whether a shed requires a building permit is its size. Generally, the state follows a standard threshold for residential accessory structures.
According to the Florida Building Code, a residential accessory structure is typically defined as a structure that is not attached to the main dwelling unit. For these structures, the general rule of thumb is:
- Under 120 square feet: Often exempt from a building permit, provided it does not exceed a certain height (usually 10 feet).
- 120 square feet or more: Requires a building permit.
Important Note: These size limits can vary slightly depending on the specific local county or city ordinances. For example, some municipalities may set the threshold at 200 square feet, while others stick to the 120-square-foot standard. Always verify the specific requirements for your county.
Value and Cost Thresholds
Even if your shed is small, the cost of construction can trigger permit requirements. If the estimated cost of materials and labor for the shed exceeds a certain dollar amount (often set by local jurisdictions), a permit is required regardless of size.
Local building departments often use a "cost threshold" to determine if a permit is necessary. If you are planning to hire a contractor to build the shed, they will typically calculate the project value. If that value hits the local threshold, the permit process begins automatically.
Height Restrictions
Size isn't just about floor area. Height is another critical factor. In many Florida residential zones, accessory structures must adhere to specific height limits to ensure they do not obstruct views or violate zoning codes.
Common height restrictions include:
- 10 feet: Often the maximum height for sheds under 120 square feet.
- 15 feet: The maximum height for larger sheds or those in specific zoning districts.
If your shed design exceeds these height limits, you will likely need a variance or a special exception from your local zoning board, in addition to a building permit.
Location and Setbacks
Where you place your shed on your property is just as important as how big it is. Florida zoning laws dictate "setbacks"—the required distance between your structure and property lines, driveways, and other buildings.
Common setback requirements include:
- Front Yard Setback: You may be required to keep the shed a certain distance back from the street-facing side of your home.
- Rear and Side Setbacks: Structures must be set back from the sides and rear of the property line.
- Utility Clearances: You must maintain clearances from utility lines, including sewer lines, water lines, and electrical conduits.
Failure to adhere to these setbacks can result in the structure being deemed non-compliant, which may require removal or modification.
Exceptions and Special Circumstances
While the rules above cover most standard sheds, there are exceptions and special circumstances to be aware of.
Sheds Attached to the Home
If your shed is attached to your main house—either by a permanent wall or a breezeway—it is no longer considered an "accessory structure." It becomes part of the main building's footprint. This means it will almost certainly require a building permit, regardless of its size.
Sheds on Flood Zones
Florida is home to many flood-prone areas. If your property is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) or a Coastal High Hazard Area, the rules change significantly.
In these zones, even small sheds may require permits because they must be elevated or built on stilts to withstand storm surges and high winds. Additionally, floodproofing measures may be required. You should check with your local building department to see if your property is in a flood zone and what elevation requirements apply.
Sheds Used as Living Space
If you plan to convert a shed into a habitable space—such as a home office, a guest bedroom, or a studio—permit requirements become much stricter. This is considered a "change of use." You will likely need a building permit to ensure the structure meets all life-safety codes, including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC requirements.
Do You Need a Zoning Permit?
It is important to distinguish between a building permit and a zoning permit. While a building permit ensures the structure is built to code, a zoning permit ensures the structure is allowed in the zone you are building in.
You may need both. For example, you might get a building permit to construct the shed, but you might also need a zoning permit to confirm that a shed is an allowed use in your specific zoning district. Always check with your local planning department to clarify which permits you need.
What Happens If You Build Without a Permit?
Building without a permit in Florida is a serious matter. The consequences can include:
- Fines: Local governments can impose significant fines for unpermitted construction.
- Stop-Work Orders: If a neighbor complains or an inspector spots the structure, you may be ordered to halt construction immediately.
- Demolition: In some cases, the local government may require you to tear down the structure if it does not meet code or zoning requirements.
- Difficulty Selling: Unpermitted structures can cause issues during the home sale process, as title searches may reveal the violation.
How to Check Your Local Requirements
Because Florida has over 400 local jurisdictions, there is no single rulebook. To ensure you are compliant, follow these steps:
- Identify Your Jurisdiction: Determine which county and city govern your property. You can usually find this information on your property tax bill or by searching online.
- Contact the Local Building Department: Call or visit the website of your local building official. Ask specifically about "residential accessory structure" requirements.
- Ask About Exemptions: Ask if your specific project falls under any exemptions based on size, value, or height.
- Submit a Plan Review: If a permit is required, submit your blueprints for review. This ensures your design meets all local codes before you start digging.
Conclusion
Building a shed in Florida is a great way to add storage or workspace to your property. However, the Sunshine State's strict building codes mean that you cannot simply "throw up" a structure and hope for the best. By understanding the size, height, and location requirements—and by checking with your local authorities—you can ensure your project is legal, safe, and built to last.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a shed on a concrete slab without a permit?
Generally, no. If the shed is 120 square feet or larger, or if it exceeds the local height limit, you will need a building permit regardless of the foundation type. The foundation must also meet specific code requirements.
Do I need a permit for a shed in a mobile home park?
Yes. Mobile home parks often have their own set of rules and regulations regarding structures. You must check with the park management and the local building department before installing any shed.
Is a permit required for a shed in a historic district?
Yes. Historic districts usually have stricter regulations to preserve the character of the neighborhood. You may need additional approvals from a historic preservation board in addition to a standard building permit.
Does the shed need to be on a concrete slab?
Not necessarily, but the foundation must be designed to support the structure and withstand Florida's weather conditions. Pier and beam foundations are common, but they must meet specific engineering standards.
Can I build a shed in my front yard?
Most residential zoning codes prohibit structures in the front yard setback area. Sheds are typically required to be placed in the rear or side yards, depending on local ordinances.
Here are the direct links to the official government sources for each county's shed permit rule:
Sumter County: Sheds under 100 sq. ft.
Official page listing "Sheds under 100 Sq. ft" under "Items Not Requiring a Permit (Residential Only)" .
🔗 https://www.sumtercountyfl.gov/1257/When-is-a-Building-Permit-Required
Town of Jupiter: Sheds 120 sq. ft. or less
Official document stating one-story detached tool/storage sheds are exempt if floor area "does not exceed 120 square feet" .
🔗 https://jupiter.fl.us/DocumentCenter/View/34654/Items-NOT-requiring-a-permit-2
Hernando County: Sheds 120 sq. ft. or less
Official news release for Ordinance 26-38 confirming "Sheds with impervious roof coverings of 120 square feet or less no longer require a zoning permit" .
🔗 https://www.hernandocounty.us/news/posts/hernando-county-government-updates-shed-requirements-through-ordinance-26-38/
Seminole County: Sheds 200 sq. ft. or less (kits/pre-built)
Official HB 803 page listing "Sheds 200 square feet or less purchased through a local hardware store... or pre-engineered/pre-built sheds" as non-structural exemptions .
🔗 https://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/departments-services/development-services/building/new-state-legislation-affecting-permits
Pasco County: Sheds 150 sq. ft. or less (DBPR-approved)
Official county PDF listing "Sheds 150 sq. ft. or less that are approved by and on file with the State of Florida's Manufactured Building Program (DBPR)" as exempt .
🔗 https://www.pascocountyfl.net/Documents/Services/Building%20Construction/Building%20Construction/Permit%20Exemptions%20List.pdf
Hillsborough County: Sheds under 150 sq. ft.
Official guide titled "Residential Accessory Structure Requirements" that applies to structures "over 150 sq. ft.," implying smaller sheds are exempt from this permit process .
🔗 https://hcfl.gov/businesses/hillsgovhub/residential-and-mobile-home-checklists/residential-accessory-structure-requirements
Note on HB 803 statewide exclusions: The Seminole County page also confirms the exemption does not apply to electrical, plumbing, structural, mechanical, or gas work, or projects in flood hazard areas . Cities like Stuart and Pinecrest explicitly classify sheds as "structural work," meaning the $7,500 exemption does not apply there .