What are the permit requirements for a shed? (1/10/2023)

On a residential property, if the floor area of the shed does not exceed 200 square feet, no building permit is required and the setback requirements (wetland and property line) are relaxed.  If the floor area is larger than 200 square feet, a building permit is required and setbacks are applicable.  Details below.

The exemption from the building permit requirement for a shed of less than 200 square feet is included in the 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) which is the set of building codes adopted at the State level.  In 2018 IRC, R105.2(1) exempts one story accessory structures, provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet.  This exemption is mirrored in Barrington’s Zoning Ordinance in the Definitions Article 18: Structure (f) One story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, providing the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet.  If larger than 200 square feet, Article 15.4.1 indicates that a building permit is required.

In addition to a building permit, it is important to consider wetland and property line setback requirements.  These requirements also depend on whether the shed is larger than 200 square feet.  In the Structure Definition cited above, the list of exemptions includes a note that… [the exempted structures] shall not be construed as structures for purposes of setback requirements, but shall be so construed for all other purposes. Sheds may require an Administrative Zoning Permit, see Article 9.4.5.  This means that at less than 200 square feet, there is not setback requirement from the property line.  If larger than 200 square feet, Article 4: Dimensional Requirements – Table 2 applies which sets front, side, and rear property line setback requirements.  Article 9 pertains to Wetlands Protection and Article 9.4.5 says that…
Sheds, and similar pole mounted structures with a combined area of 200 square feet or less shall be permitted within wetland buffer areas, provided that:
9.4(5)(a) ...............The structures are constructed on posts or pilings so as to permit the unobstructed flow of water; and
9.4(5)(b)...............The natural contours of the wetland shall be preserved.
9.4(5)(c)…………An Administrative Zoning Permit is obtained from the Zoning Administrator, verifying the proposed structure is in compliance with 9.4(5)(a&b)

If a shed is larger than 200 square feet, the provisions of Article 9 are applicable.   

Placement of a shed on a commercial property is governed by the Site Plan requirements pursuant to Article 3.1.6.