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Shed Permits in PA: Complete Guide

A shed up to building code in PA.

If you’re a resident of Pennsylvania and plan to add a shed to your property, you first need to know what permits and other legalities apply. In reality, it’s not very difficult to receive a shed permit in PA. We’ve created a table of helpful links to specific local permit requirements/information for individual counties and cities within PA. 

If you’re still undecided about the type of shed you need, you can visit our website, where you’ll also find 3D tools to help you build your ideal shed.

Okay, time to get all your shed permit questions answered!

Table of Contents

Search Tool

Width:
Length:
Style:

8x18 Workshop w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Classic Shed

Base Price: $4499

8x16 Workshop w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Classic Shed

Base Price: $4163

16x48 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $29933.6

16x44 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $28134.36

16x40 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $26098.28

16x36 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $24058.48

16x34 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $23029.28

16x32 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $22011.24

16x30 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $20979.56

16x28 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $19956.56

16x26 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $18932.32

16x24 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $17909.32

16x22 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $16896

16x20 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $15876

16x18 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $14853

16x16 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $13823

14x48 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $20821

14x44 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $19377

14x40 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $17936

14x36 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $16495

14x34 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $15771

14x32 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $15051

14x30 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $14327

14x26 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $12882

14x24 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $12160

14x22 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $11443

14x20 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $10722

14x18 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $10002

14x16 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $9278

12x48 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $17502

12x44 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $16065

12x40 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $14825

12x36 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $13588

12x34 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $12970

12x32 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $12351

12x30 Lancaster w Smart Panel T111 Siding

Building Type: Modern Shed

Base Price: $11735

Do you need shed permits in PA?

Under the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code, a permit is not needed for sheds less than 1,000 square feet. However, local jurisdictions are allowed to amend their building codes, after being approved. As a result, in many PA cities and counties you will need a shed permit if your shed is around 100-200 square feet. Also, keep in mind that if the shed is intended to be a permanent structure or will have electrical or plumbing installations, a permit might be necessary.

But even if your shed is lower than the specified dimensions, a zoning permit is required in most jurisdictions. 

For instance, in North Huntingdon, PA, shed permits follow the following breakdown:

  • Sheds under 200 square feet require a $25 Zoning Permit Application.
  • Sheds measuring 200 square feet or larger necessitate a Residential Building Permit Application.
  • Sheds with a size of 100 square feet or smaller can be positioned 5 feet from the side and rear property lines.

Of course, you will want to confirm with your local government before you begin construction on a shed. To gain relevant information, find your city or county from our table of links. 

A shed up to building code in PA.

Do I need a shed permit in the city of Philadelphia, PA? 

Yes. If your shed is larger than 200 square feet, you will need to get a building permit in the city of Philadelphia, PA.

In addition, you will have to obtain a zoning permit if the shed is larger than 130 square feet. 

Do I need a shed permit in Pittsburgh, PA?

Yes, for sheds larger than 120 square feet, a shed permit is needed in Pittsburgh, PA

Do I need a shed permit in Montgomery, PA?

Yes, if your shed is larger than 1,000 square feet in Montgomery, PA, a shed permit is required. 

Where do I get a shed permit in PA?

Gaining a shed permit in PA is easy! Basically, it comes down to doing the following things:

  1. Check out your local government’s web page.
  2. See what their requirements are for shed permits and zoning. 
  3. If unclear, use the contact information provided. 
  4. Find the permit application on the website. 
  5. Many areas in PA require you to drop off a physical permit/zoning application to their government office. However, some jurisdictions do allow emailed copies. 

For more information about shed permits in various PA counties and largest cities, you can find helpful resources using the links in our table

A shed with a shed permit in PA.

What is the penalty if you don’t get a shed permit in PA?

The penalty for not obtaining a shed permit in Pennsylvania can vary depending on local regulations and the specific circumstances. In most cases, constructing a shed without the required permit is considered a violation of building codes and zoning regulations. As a result, you may face one or more of the following penalties:

  • Stop-Work Order: Local authorities may issue a stop-work order, halting all construction activities until the proper permits are obtained. This can lead to delays and additional expenses.
  • Fines: Failure to obtain the necessary permits may result in fines imposed by the local government. The amount of the fine can vary based on the severity of the violation and the local regulations.
  • Legal Action: In some cases, continued non-compliance or repeated violations could lead to legal action, which might involve further fines and even orders to remove the shed entirely.
  • Difficulty in Selling Property: If you plan to sell your property in the future, the absence of proper permits for structures like a shed may raise red flags for potential buyers and affect the property’s value.
  • Insurance Issues: Insurance companies may deny claims related to the shed if it was built without the required permits, leaving you responsible for any damages or liabilities.

Check with your local government for even more information (our table of links may help with this process).

How much does a shed permit cost in PA?

Shed permits in PA cost around $50 – $200 depending on the size, cost, or area you are located. To find out the exact cost of a shed permit in your area, you should contact your local government responsible for issuing building permits (see our table of links for more information).

Additionally, keep in mind that zoning permits are required in most municipalities, which cost on average $50. 

For example, you can refer to the list of permit fees, specific to Bethlehem, PA, to get a better understanding of the associated costs.

A shed up to building code in PA.

How long does it take to get a shed permit in PA?

On average, it takes around 15-30 days to get a shed permit in PA. To get a more accurate estimate of the processing time, it’s best to reach out to the local Department of Permits and Inspections in your area. 

For example, in Hampton Township, PA, it takes about 15 days to obtain a shed permit. It’s always advisable to apply for the permit well in advance of your planned construction date to allow for any potential delays in the approval process.

What’s the Biggest Shed I can Have without Planning Permission in PA?

The rules and regulations regarding the size of sheds that can be constructed without planning permission in Pennsylvania can vary depending on the specific municipality or county where your property is located. In many areas of Pennsylvania, you may be able to build a shed without planning permission if it meets certain size and height restrictions. For more detailed information, you can view our table of links to find your specific local government page.

For example, in Pittsburgh, PA, one-story detached accessory structures, such as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, are allowed as long as the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet. These structures must also be accessory to a single-family or two-family dwelling.

A shed up to building code in PA.

How Long is a Shed Permit Valid in PA?

In some areas, shed permits may be valid for a specific time frame, such as 6 months or 1 year, from the date of issuance. This means you have that much time to start the construction of the shed after obtaining the permit. If you do not begin construction within the validity period, the permit may expire, and you may need to reapply and pay the permit fees again.

Shed permit requirements in the largest cities in PA

Philadelphiahttps://www.phila.gov/media/20200904104416/PG_011-_FAQ_Shed.pdf
Pittsburghhttps://pittsburghpa.gov/pli/building-permit
Allentownhttps://www.allentownpa.gov/Building-Standards-Safety/Building-Permits-Inspections/Permit-Application
Readinghttps://www.readingpa.gov/zoning-and-planning
Eriehttps://cityof.erie.pa.us/government/departments/code-enforcement/residential-building-permits/
Upper Darbyhttps://www.upperdarby.org/Permits
Scrantonhttps://scrantonpa.gov/your-government/oecd/code-enforcement/construction-permits/
Bethlehemhttps://www.bethlehem-pa.gov/Community-Economic-Development/Code-Enforcement/Residential-Frequently-Asked-Questions
Lower Merion Townshiphttps://www.lowermerion.org/departments/building-and-planning-department/building-division/permits-licensing
Bensalem Townshiphttps://www.bensalempa.gov/building–planning.html
Lancaster City https://www.cityoflancasterpa.gov/building-permits/ 
Lower Paxtonhttps://www.lowerpaxton-pa.gov/173/Permits-Applications 
Harrisburghttps://harrisburgpa.gov/codes/ 
York City https://www.yorkcity.org/city-services/departments/economic-and-community-development/permits-and-inspections/
Penn Hillshttps://pennhillspa.gov/municipal-code-enforcement-department/
https://pennhillspa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Required-Residential-Permits.pdf 
Norristownhttps://www.norristown.org/182/Permit-Application-Process 
Radnorhttps://www.radnor.com/government/departments/engineering/grading-permits 
Chester Cityhttps://www.chestercity.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Zoning_Ordinance_Dec_2015.pdf 
Upper Merion https://www.umtownship.org/departments/safety-code-enforcement/building-regulations/#:~:text=Work%20That%20Requires%20a%20Permit
Moonhttp://www.moontwp.com/departments/building-inspection.php#:~:text=Permits%20are%20NOT%20needed%20for%3A&text=Retaining%20Wall%20less%2030%22%20in,than%20Larger%20than%2080%20SF 
West Readinghttps://www.westreadingborough.com/code-enforcement/pages/permits 
Abington https://www.abingtonpa.gov/departments/fire-and-emergency-management-services/code-enforcement-division
Altoona https://www.altoonapa.gov/departments/codes-inspections/when-do-i-need-a-building-permit#:~:text=Building%20or%20repairing%20a%20deck%2C%20garage%2C%20accessory%20building
Bristol https://www.bristoltownship.org/liforms.cfm#:~:text=Shed%20Requirements%20and%20Application
Butler https://cityofbutler.org/departments/building-and-zoning/residential-building-division/#:~:text=Sample%20plot%20plan%20for%20an%20addition%2C%20garage%2C%20or%20shed
Hempfield https://www.hempfieldtwp.com/158/Building-Permits#:~:text=Garage%2C%20Shed%2C%20Storage%20Building
Ridley https://www.ridleytwp.org/code
State College https://www.statecollegepa.us/205/Garden-Storage-Sheds
Tredyffrin https://www.tredyffrin.org/services/permits-inspections/building-construction-permits#:~:text=including%20signs%2C%20sheds%2C%20fences%2C%20accessory%20structures%2C%20tents%2C%20etc.
Warminster https://warminstertownship.org/permits-forms/
Washington https://washingtonpa.us/licenses-permits-fees/

Shed Permit Requirements in Maryland Counties

Adams County https://www.adamscountypa.gov/departments/officeofplanninganddevelopment/zoning
Allegheny County https://www.adamscountypa.gov/departments/officeofplanninganddevelopment/zoning
Beaver County https://beaverpa.us/permits/
Bedford County https://www.bedfordcountypa.org/departments/planning/faq.php
Berks County https://earltwpberks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/EarlTwp_ACCESSORYBLDG_SHED-PERMIT.pdf
https://berkscodes.com/
Bucks County https://www.middletownbucks.org/Departments/Building-Zoning/Apply-For-a-Permit#:~:text=The%20first%20step%20in%20applying,or%20visit%20the%20Municipal%20Center
Butler County https://cityofbutler.org/departments/building-and-zoning/
Chester County https://www.chesco.org/177/Planning-Commission
Clearfield County https://www.twp.lancaster.pa.us/departments/planning___zoning/building_zoning_permit_faqs.php#collapse940b6
Clifton County https://www.clintoncountypa.gov/departments/planning-grants-zoning/request-a-zoning-building-permit
Columbia County http://www.columbiapa.org/planning/docs.php
Crawford Countyhttps://www.crawfordcountypa.net/Planning/Pages/home.aspx
Cumberland County https://www.cumberlandcountypa.gov/5020/Land-Building-Use-Applications
Dauphin County https://harrisburgpa.gov/codes/
Franklin County https://franklinpa.gov/index.asp?SEC=F94561C8-5EB0-4FDE-9AD8-0E916A012309#EFDBC984-53AC-4960-A2B0-894FA0412DAB:~:text=These%20regulations%20are%20mandated%20by%20the%20Uniform%20Construction%20Code%20adopted%20by%20the%20City%20of%20Franklin%20on%20May%203rd%2C%202004%20Ordinance%203%20of%202004.%0AResidential%20projects%20that%20DO%20NOT%20require%20UCC%20Certified%20Inspection%3A
Lackawanna County https://covingtontwp.org/departments/building-code-office/
Lancaster County https://www.twp.lancaster.pa.us/departments/planning___zoning/building_zoning_permit_faqs.php#collapse940b6
Lebanon County https://lebanoncountypa.gov/departments/planning#:~:text=Residential%20Permit%20Fee%20Worksheet
Luzerne County https://www.luzernecounty.org/281/Planning-Zoning
Lycoming County https://www.lyco.org/Departments/Planning-and-Community-Development/Zoning
Montgomery County https://www.montgomerytwp.org/department/division.php?structureid=77
Northampton County https://hanovertwp-nc.org/zoningbuilding/permits/#:~:text=A%20PERMIT%20is%20required%20prior%20to%20the%20erection%2C%20construction%20or%20alteration%20of%20any%20building%2C%20structure%20or%20any%20portion%20thereof%20and%20authorizes%20the%20legal%20use%20of%20the%20property%20and%20use%20occupancy%20after%20construction%20is%20completed.
Schuylkill County https://schuylkillcountypa.gov/departments/planning___zoning/index.php#outer-123
Susquehanna County https://www.susquehannatwp.com/community-development/pages/building-zoning-permit-information
Venango County https://venangotwp.org/departments/building-department/
Washington County https://washingtonpa.us/licenses-permits-fees/
Warren County https://www.cityofwarrenpa.gov/index.asp?SEC=1D18B34A-20C5-411F-8CBB-FEA2CE4BAF00#:~:text=Some%20small%20projects%20such%20as%20accessory%20buildings%20(less%20than%201000%20square%20fee)%20and%20fences%20may%20only%20require%20a%20zoning%20permit.%20Please%20consult%20the%20Building%20Codes%20Department%20for%20assistance%20in%20determining%20whether%20a%20permit%20is%20required%20for%20your%20planned%20project(s).%C2%A0%C2%A0%C2%A0
Westmoreland County https://www.co.westmoreland.pa.us/1475/Subdivision-Development-Zoning
York County https://www.ycpc.org/226/Building-Permit-Reports
A shed up to building code in PA

Wrapping It Up

Well, there you have it! Most sheds larger than 120 square feet in PA will need a building permit. But as always, this can vary across the cities and counties in PA. If you have any questions regarding garage permit regulations in PA or shed permits in CT, you can take a look at our articles.

And with your permits behind you, you can start dreaming about your shed by getting a free estimate on one of our sheds or design your own in 3D.

Happy shed building!

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