Garage Permits in VT: The Ultimate Guide

Thinking about building a garage in Vermont? Before you break ground or even order materials, it is important to understand the permit process, because in Vermont, the rules can vary widely depending on your town, property zoning, and the type of structure you are planning. Whether you are adding a detached two-car garage, expanding an existing structure, or building a garage with living space above it, getting the right permits upfront can save you time, money, and major headaches later. 

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about garage permits in Vermont, from when permits are required and what documents you will need to typical timelines, fees, and common mistakes to avoid.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in VT?

Yes, you almost certainly need a permit to build a garage in Vermont. A local zoning permit is generally required for any new structure, including attached or detached garages, to ensure compliance with setbacks and property boundaries. Depending on the municipality, a building permit may also be required if the structure exceeds a certain size, often 200 square feet or more, or includes utilities.

Do I Need a Permit to Run Electricity to My Garage in VT?

Yes, you generally need a permit and a licensed electrician to run electricity to a detached or attached garage in Vermont to ensure compliance with the National Electrical Code and local regulations. A state or municipal electrical inspector must approve the installation before the utility company can energize it.

What Setback and Lot Coverage Rules Apply When Building a Garage in VT?

In Vermont, setback and lot coverage rules usually apply when building a garage. Setbacks require the garage to be placed a certain distance away from the front, side, and rear property lines, and the exact measurements depend on the zoning district in your town. Lot coverage rules also limit how much of your property can be covered by buildings and other surfaces like driveways, meaning your garage must fit within the maximum allowed coverage for the lot.

What Customizations Can I Add To My Garage In VT?

In Vermont, you can customize your garage in many ways as long as your design follows your town’s zoning and building rules. Common upgrades include adding electricity, lighting, and outlets, insulation and HVAC systems for year-round use, plumbing for sinks or utility areas, and finished walls or ceilings for a more polished interior. 

Many homeowners also install car lifts, storage systems, built-in shelving, or loft spaces to increase storage. Exterior choices might include windows, skylights, different siding or roofing materials, cupolas, and decorative garage doors. Just make sure any structural changes or added utilities are included in your permit application and comply with local setbacks, lot coverage limits, and building code requirements.

Garage Permit Requirements For Cities in Vermont

To find the exact garage permit requirements for your area, refer to the table below for city-specific details. It can help you identify the right local permitting office to contact before you start your project.

Bennington	Planning & Permits
Brattleboro	Building Inspections
Burlington	Permitting & Inspections
Colchester	Permits
Essex	Permits & Licensing
Hartford	Planning & Zoning
Manchester	Planning & Zoning
Middlebury	Planning & Zoning
Milton	Planning & Zoning
Montpelier	Building Permits
Rutland	Building
South Burlington	City Permits, Licenses & Registrations
Springfield	Permits & Forms
Williston	Permit Forms & Fees

Do I Need A Garage Permit In Bennington, VT?

Yes, you generally need a zoning permit to build a new garage or expand an existing one in Bennington, VT. Any new structure or expansion of an existing building footprint requires approval from the Town of Bennington. Permits are required for both detached and attached garages to ensure compliance with setbacks, lot coverage, and safety regulations.

Do I Need A Garage Permit In Brattleboro, VT?

Yes, in most cases, you will need a zoning permit to build a new detached or attached garage in Brattleboro, Vermont, since garages are considered structures regulated under local land use bylaws. To get approval, you must submit a zoning permit application, Form A, to the Town of Brattleboro. If the property is located within a Special Flood Hazard Area, additional and more stringent requirements may apply. Contact Brattleboro Building Inspection for more information.

Do I Need A Garage Permit In Burlington, VT?

Yes, you very likely need a permit to build a garage in Burlington, Vermont. A zoning permit is required for any new attached or detached garage to confirm compliance with setback rules and lot coverage limits. In addition, a building permit is typically required for construction work and for any electrical or plumbing installations. Applications are handled through the Burlington Department of Permitting and Inspections.

Do I Need A Garage Permit In Colchester, VT?

Yes, you typically need a zoning permit and sometimes a building permit to build a new garage or expand an existing one in Colchester, Vermont. Permits are required for new residential structures, accessory buildings, and any project that increases impervious surface area. For more information, contact the Colchester Permit Center.

Do I Need A Garage Permit In Essex, VT?

Yes, you generally need a zoning permit and possibly a building permit for a garage in Essex, Vermont. The town requires permits for constructing, reconstructing, converting, or expanding any structure. Whether the garage is attached or detached, a new build typically requires review to confirm compliance with local land use regulations and setback requirements.

Do I Need A Garage Permit In Hartford, VT?

Yes, you generally need a zoning permit to build a new garage or make structural changes to an existing one in Hartford, Vermont. Any construction or structural alteration of buildings typically requires zoning approval to ensure the project meets local regulations. It is strongly recommended to contact Hartford Planning and Zoning department to confirm the exact requirements for your property.

Do I Need A Garage Permit In Manchester, VT?

Yes, you will likely need a zoning permit to build a garage in Manchester, Vermont, since a garage is treated as a permanent accessory building, whether it is attached to the home or built separately. Under the Village of Manchester zoning rules, land development approval is required for projects that involve putting up a new structure, rebuilding one, or making major structural modifications. Contact Manchester Planning & Zoning Department for more information. 

Do I Need A Garage Permit In Middlebury, VT?

Yes, you typically need zoning approval and possibly a building permit to construct a garage in Middlebury, Vermont. A yellow zoning permit is required for new structures and must be posted on site. Your project also has to meet Middlebury’s specific requirements. It is a good idea to contact the Middlebury Planning and Zoning department to confirm whether your project will need a Development Review Board hearing.

Do I Need A Garage Permit In Milton, VT?

Yes, you will almost always need a zoning permit to build a new garage, expand an existing one, or make structural changes to a garage in Milton, Vermont. After the project is finished, a Certificate of Compliance is required. The work must also follow local zoning rules, including setback requirements, lot coverage limits, and, in some cases Act 250 regulations.

Do I Need A Garage Permit In Montpelier, VT?

Yes, in Montpelier, Vermont, you will very likely need both a zoning permit and a building permit to construct a garage, since the city typically requires approval for most new builds, additions, and major structural changes. It is best to reach out to the Montpelier Planning Department before you begin, because the required permits must be issued prior to starting any work.

Do I Need A Garage Permit In Rutland, VT?

Yes, in the City of Rutland, Vermont, you will usually need both a zoning permit and a building permit to construct a garage. These approvals are required for most new structures, whether detached or attached, to make sure the project follows zoning rules, safety standards, and property line requirements. Permit applications can be completed online through the city Permit Portal.

Do I Need A Garage Permit In South Burlington, VT?

Yes, you will need a permit to build a garage in South Burlington, Vermont. You typically must obtain a zoning permit before constructing a new accessory structure, such as a garage or shed, and the project must meet local lot coverage and setback rules. A building permit may also be necessary, especially if the garage includes utilities or the construction is more complex.

Do I Need A Garage Permit In Springfield, VT?

Yes. In Springfield, Vermont, you generally need a building permit to construct a detached garage. The City of Springfield requires you to apply through City Hall and submit the permit application, fixture fee form for HVAC, plumbing, or electrical work, multiple sets of building plans and plot plans, and follow local zoning setback requirements.

Do I Need A Garage Permit In Williston, VT?

Yes, in Williston, Vermont, building a garage will usually require official approval because most construction projects, including standalone accessory buildings, must have a zoning permit. Some small portable or temporary structures under 120 square feet and under 10 feet tall may be excluded, but a typical garage still needs an approved application. You will also need to submit a site plan that shows the property boundaries. Contact the Williston Planning & Zoning department for more information. 

Garage Permit Requirements For Counties in Vermont

Garage permit rules can vary by county in Vermont, so it is important to confirm the specific requirements before starting construction. Use the table below to quickly review county-level permitting details and determine where to reach out for guidance in your area.

Addison County	Zoning
Bennington County	Zoning Regulations & Ordinances
Caledonia County	Buildings & General Services
Chittenden County	County Website
Essex County	County Website
Franklin County	Zoning
Grand Isle County	Planning & Zoning
Lamoille County	Planning
Orange County	Forms & Permits
Orleans County	Buildings & General Services
Rutland County	Building
Washington County	County Website
Windham County	Buildings & General Services
Windsor County	Planning, Zoning & Development

Customizable Garages Built to Meet Vermont Zoning Requirements

If you are ready to upgrade your property with a durable and attractive garage, Sheds Unlimited offers a wide range of customizable garage options built for long-lasting performance. Our garages can be designed to meet common local zoning and building requirements, including size limits, setback rules, and permit standards, making the process easier for homeowners. Whether you need secure vehicle storage, extra space for tools, or a dedicated workshop, you can choose a style and layout that fits your needs while staying aligned with regulations. Explore the available garage models today and find the perfect addition to your Vermont home.