Shed Permits in PA: The Ultimate Guide

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 legal requirements 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!

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Shed 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.

Do I Need a Permit to Run Electricity to My Shed in PA?

Yes, in most cases, you do need a permit to run electricity to a shed in Pennsylvania.

Under the PA Uniform Construction Code (UCC), electrical work requires permits and inspections, even if the shed itself does not require a building permit. 

This includes:

• Running new wiring
• Installing outlets, lighting, or a subpanel
• Connecting the shed to your home’s electrical system

Do I Need A Floor Plan For My Shed In PA?

In Pennsylvania, you may be required to submit a floor plan when applying for a permit, but it depends on the size of the shed and your local municipality.

• If your shed is under 1,000 square feet and exempt from a permit under the PA UCC, a floor plan is typically not required.
• If your shed requires a permit, most municipalities will ask for a basic floor plan or construction drawings showing dimensions and layout.

What Size Shed Can I Build Without A Permit in PA?

In Pennsylvania, the Uniform Construction Code (UCC) generally allows you to build a shed up to 1,000 square feet without a permit.

Shed Permit Requirements For Cities in Pennsylvania

See the table below to locate your city’s permit office and contact information. Getting in touch with your city office can help you confirm any local rules before moving forward with your shed plans.

Allentown	Building Standards & Safety
Altoona	Codes & Inspections
Bethlehem	Forms & Permits
Butler	Building Permits
Chester	Building Officials Office
Easton	Code Enforcement & Planning
Erie	Permits
Harrisburg	Bureau of Codes
Hazleton	Permits & Licenses
Johnstown	Permits
Lancaster	Building Permits
Lebanon	Building & Zoning
McKeesport	Building Inspector
Philadelphia	Licenses & Inspections
Pittsburgh	Permits, Licenses & Inspections
Reading	Building & Trades
Scranton	Building Permits
State College	Zoning Permits
Wilkes-Barre	Building Permits
Williamsport	Bureau of Codes
York	Bureau of Permits & Inspections

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Allentown, PA?

Yes, you will likely need a building permit or a zoning permit, and in some cases both, before you build your shed, so it’s important to check with your local office to determine exactly what applies to your project.

Requirements:

• Setback measurement: If your shed has eaves, setbacks are measured from the outer edge of the roofline, not the wall.
• Front yard: Sheds are not permitted in the front yard.
• Height: Your shed must not exceed 20 feet.
• Footprint: Your shed’s footprint must be no larger than your home’s main structure.
• Size threshold: No minimum-size exemption is specified; permit requirements apply regardless of shed size.
• Easements: You can’t place a shed within a utility easement unless you get approval from the City Council or another authorizing agency.
• Impervious surface: Your shed counts toward your lot’s maximum building coverage and impervious surface limits, so confirm you’re within those thresholds before you build.

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Altoona, PA?

Yes, a permit is likely required. Depending on your project, you may need a building permit, a zoning permit, or both. Check whether your project requires a building permit. If not, a zoning permit may still be required before you build.

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Bethlehem, PA?

Yes, you will likely need a permit before building your shed, which could include a building permit, a zoning permit, or both, depending on your project. So it’s important to check with Bethlehem Code Enforcement Department to see if your plans qualify. Even if a building permit isn’t needed, a zoning permit may still apply, so you should confirm both requirements before starting.

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Butler, PA?

Yes, you will likely need a permit to build a shed in Butler, PA, or Butler Township, though the exact requirements depend on the structure’s size and local zoning rules. In most cases, sheds that are 200 square feet or larger require a residential building permit, while smaller sheds under about 100 to 120 square feet may not need a full building permit but often still require a zoning permit. Contact the Butler Building & Zoning Department for more information. 

Requirements

• Setback requirements: Sheds must be placed a certain distance from property lines, usually around 5 to 10 feet
• Location matters: Requirements can vary between Butler City and Butler Township, so always verify locally
• Exceptions: Agricultural buildings may be exempt in some cases, but you may still need to file an exemption form
• Additional considerations: Adding electricity or plumbing will usually trigger additional permits

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Chester, PA?

Yes, in most cases, you will need a zoning permit to build a shed in Chester, PA, as any new structure must comply with local ordinances. Zoning approval is typically required before applying for a building permit, and your application will usually need to include a plot plan showing building coverage, green space, and impervious surface areas. While smaller prefabricated sheds may not require a building permit, larger or more complex structures often do, and the property owner is responsible for submitting all required applications and documents.

It’s best to contact the Chester Planning and Zoning Department to confirm exact requirements for your property.

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Easton, PA?

Yes, in most cases, you will need a zoning permit to build a shed in Easton, PA, as the city requires all accessory structures, including sheds, to be reviewed by the Zoning Office. You must submit a zoning application and receive approval before starting construction, and depending on the size and scope of your shed, a building permit and plan review may also be required.

Requirements can vary based on your property, so it’s important to contact the City of Easton Zoning Office to confirm current rules, permit needs, and setbacks before starting your project.

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Erie, PA?

Yes, a permit is likely required to build a shed in Erie, PA, especially if the structure is over 100 square feet, as a building permit is typically needed at that size. Smaller sheds under 100 square feet may not require a full building permit, but often still need zoning approval, and all sheds must follow local setback rules, usually requiring placement 5 to 10 feet from property lines. If your shed includes utilities such as electricity, plumbing, or heating, additional permits will be required regardless of its size.

Rules can vary slightly between the city and surrounding townships; it is always best to confirm with your local municipal office before building.

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Harrisburg, PA?

Yes, you will need approval to install a shed in Harrisburg, PA, as a zoning permit is required and a building permit is typically needed for sheds over 200 square feet. Smaller sheds may not require a full building permit but must still follow zoning rules, including setback requirements of about 5 to 10 feet from property lines. Additional permits are required if the shed includes utilities, and properties in historic districts may need approval from the Historic Review Board. Permits are handled through the Harrisburg Bureau of Codes.

Since requirements can vary by property, it is best to contact the Harrisburg Bureau Of Codes directly before starting your project.

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Hazleton, PA?

Yes. In Hazleton, PA, you will need a permit to install a shed. Sheds fall under residential zoning requirements, which means you must obtain a residential zoning permit before building one. In Hazleton, detached sheds and similar structures like private garages need a work authorization permit

The fee for a residential zoning permit is $75 per unit.

Requirements:

• Placement Rules: Sheds must be placed in the side or rear yard only, not in the front.
• Application Details: You will usually need to provide a site plan showing the shed’s dimensions, location, and how far it sits from property lines.
• Permit Costs: Shed permits in the City of Hazleton are about $40, though fees across Pennsylvania can vary roughly between $50 and $200.

It is best to contact the Hazleton Permits and Licenses office to verify the exact requirements for your project before starting.

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Johnstown, PA?

Yes, you generally need a permit to build a shed in Johnstown, PA, as the city requires permits for most new construction and accessory structures. A building permit is required for projects such as demolition, repairs, renovations, and new construction, and it must be obtained before work begins to avoid penalties or stop work orders. You should also confirm zoning compliance, as local rules govern land use and setbacks. Permit costs for residential projects typically start around $59.50, while commercial fees are based on project value, and failing to obtain a permit can result in increased fines or doubled costs.

It’s best to check with the City of Johnstown Bureau of Permits before starting construction to ensure you meet all requirements and avoid possible penalties.

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Lancaster, PA?

Yes, you will typically need a permit to build a shed in Lancaster, PA. Yes, you will typically need a permit to build a shed in Lancaster, PA, but it is unclear whether a building permit, zoning permit, or both are required, so you should confirm with your local authority. Specific setback distances, placement rules, and other restrictions are not clearly defined, so it’s important to verify details like property lines, HOA rules, or zoning overlays. Your best next step is to contact the Lancaster Permits & Licensing Department to confirm the exact requirements for your property before moving forward.

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Lebanon, PA?

Permit requirements are unclear based on available information, but a building permit may be required depending on your project, and a zoning permit is typically required regardless of size. Because rules such as setbacks, size limits, and placement can vary by location, it’s best to contact your local building or zoning department to confirm exactly what applies before you begin.

Do I Need A Shed Permit In McKeesport, PA?

Yes, you need a permit to build a shed in McKeesport, PA. Building permits are required for any structure, including sheds, typically if the shed exceeds about 144 to 200 square feet. You can apply through the Community Development Department or Building Inspection Underwriters.

Requirements

• Setback Rules: Smaller sheds, usually under 100 square feet, are often required to be placed at least 5 feet away from side and rear property lines.
• Utilities: If your shed includes electricity, plumbing, or heating, additional permits are required, regardless of size.

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Philadelphia, PA?

Yes, you may need a permit to build a shed in Philadelphia, PA, depending on its size and placement.

In most cases, the city requires a zoning permit and sometimes a building permit before installing a shed:

• Up to 120 sq ft:
  • Front or side yard: zoning permit required
  • Rear yard: zoning permit not required
  • No building permit required
• 120 to 200 sq ft:
  • No building permit required
  • Zoning permit required
• Over 200 sq ft:
  • Zoning permit required
  • Building permit required

Additional rules apply, including setback requirements, height limits, and zoning restrictions. If your shed includes electricity, plumbing, or mechanical systems, separate permits may also be needed.

To stay compliant, always submit your application to the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections before starting construction.

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Pittsburgh, PA?

In Pittsburgh, PA, you may not need a permit for a shed if it is 200 square feet or smaller and is a one-story detached accessory structure for a one or two-family home. However, if the shed exceeds 200 square feet, a permit is required, and the project must go through the city’s Building and Development Application review process.

Keep in mind that even if a permit is not required, your shed must still comply with local zoning rules. It’s always a good idea to confirm your specific project with Pittsburgh’s Permits, Licenses, and Inspections department before building.

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Reading, PA?

Yes, you usually need a permit for a shed in Reading, PA, but the exact requirement depends on size, use, and local zoning rules. Most sheds require at least a zoning permit from the city, while larger sheds typically require a building permit.

Requirements: 

• Sheds with electricity or plumbing always require permits
• Size thresholds vary, but around 100 to 200 square feet is a common cutoff
• Setback rules and zoning restrictions still apply even for small sheds
• Always confirm with the Reading codes or zoning office before building

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Scranton, PA?

Yes, you need a permit to build or install a shed in Scranton, PA, as a zoning permit is required for placing any shed on your property. These rules apply to both prefabricated and custom-built sheds, and depending on the size and scope of the project, a building permit may also be required.

Requirements:

• Applications must be submitted before starting work, typically 4 to 90 days in advance
• Starting work without a permit can result in doubled fees
• Approved permits must be posted visibly at the job site

Do I Need A Shed Permit In State College, PA?

Yes. A zoning permit is required for any shed in State College, even for small garden or storage sheds. Even if your shed meets the size limits, you still need a zoning permit and must follow setback rules based on your zoning district.

To apply, you will need:

• A completed permit application
• Drawings showing the shed size, placement, and distance from property lines
• Applicable permit fees

You only need to submit one application, since it is shared between the Borough and Centre Region Code.

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Wilkes-Barre, PA?

Yes, in most cases, you will need a zoning permit to install a shed in Wilkes-Barre, PA. Even though smaller sheds under about 100 to 200 square feet may not require a full building permit in some areas, local zoning regulations typically still apply to all accessory structures.

Requirements

• Permit requirements: Submitting a site plan that outlines your property layout and setback distances
• Size: Sheds larger than 200 square feet usually require a full residential building permit, while smaller ones may only need zoning approval
• Setbacks: You must meet local setback rules, often requiring at least 5 feet from property lines
• Utilities: Any shed with electricity, plumbing, or HVAC will require permits regardless of its size 

Do I Need A Shed Permit In Williamsport, PA?

Yes, in most cases, you will need a zoning permit to install a shed in Williamsport, PA, as local ordinances require approval before any construction begins, along with plans showing the size and location of the structure. Larger sheds or those involving more extensive construction may also require a building permit through the City’s Bureau of Codes, while smaller sheds may only need zoning approval. In all cases, your shed must meet local setback requirements, and any structure with electricity, plumbing, or HVAC will require additional permits. 

Do I Need A Shed Permit In York, PA?

Yes, in York, PA, you typically need a permit to build a shed, though the exact rules depend on the municipality, such as York City or York Township. 

Smaller sheds under about 100 to 200 square feet may not require a building permit in some areas, but a zoning permit is often still necessary to verify setback requirements. It is best to check with your local township office to be sure.

Requirements

• Maximum shed size is 240 square feet, for example, about 12 by 20 feet
• Sheds must be set back at least 6 feet from the side and rear property lines
• Maximum height allowed is 15 feet, measured to the midpoint of the roof peak
• Sheds are not allowed in the front yard unless they are at least 100 feet from the street right of way, with corner lots requiring two front yard setbacks
• Sheds cannot be placed within easements or rights of way used for utilities, drainage, streets, or similar purposes
• A stormwater fee of 10 dollars may apply if the shed is built on a surface like grass or stone, and no other sheds exist on the property
• No stormwater fee is charged for replacement sheds or for sheds placed on existing hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt

Shed Permit Requirements For Counties in Pennsylvania

Check the table below to find your county’s permit office and contact details. Contacting your county office will help you verify the specific requirements before beginning your shed project.

Adams County	Office of Planning & Development
Allegheny County	Building Permits
Armstrong County	Planning
Beaver County	Permits
Bedford County	Planning
Berks County	Planning
Blair County	Planning
Bradford County	Community Planning & Mapping
Bucks County	Planning
Butler County	Development & Planning
Cambria County	Planning
Cameron County	Planning
Carbon County	Office of Planning & Development
Centre County	Building Permit
Chester County	Planning
Clarion County	Planning
Clearfield County	Planning
Clinton County	Building Permit
Columbia County	Permit Applications
Crawford County	Planning
Cumberland County	Planning
Dauphin County	Planning
Delaware County	Planning
Elk County	Planning
Erie County	Licenses, Permits & Inspections
Fayette County	Buildings & Grounds
Forest County	Conversation District & Planning Department
Franklin County	Planning
Fulton County	Planning & Mapping
Greene County	Buildings & Grounds
Huntingdon County	Planning & Development
Indiana County	Building Permits
Jefferson County	Planning
Juniata County	Planning & Community Development
Lackawanna County	Planning
Lancaster County	Licenses & Permits
Lawrence County	Planning & Community Development
Lebanon County	Planning
Lehigh County	Community & Economic Development
Luzerne County	Buildings & Grounds
Lycoming County	Planning & Community Development
McKean County	Planning
Mercer County	Regional Planning
Mifflin County	Building Permits
Monroe County	Planning
Montgomery County	Applications & Permits
Montour County	Zoning
Northampton County	Public Works
Northumberland County	Building
Perry County	Planning
Philadelphia County	Zoning Permits
Pike County	Planning & Mapping
Potter County	Planning
Schuylkill County	Planning & Zoning
Snyder County	Planning
Somerset County	Planning
Sullivan County	Planning & Development
Susquehanna County	Planning & Development
Tioga County	Planning
Union County	Planning
Venango County	Planning
Warren County	Planning & Zoning
Washington County	Building & Grounds
Wayne County	Subdivision & Zoning
Westmoreland County	Subdivision, Development & Zoning
Wyoming County	Subdivision & Land Development
York County	Building Permit

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