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Maryland Shed Permits: Guide By County
If you’re thinking about adding a storage shed or garden building to your Maryland property, it’s important to make sure it’s allowed in your area before beginning your project. In this guide, we’ll explain who to contact for information about the shed permit process and how local zoning rules might affect your placement. And if you’re considering options, you can explore our Shed Models, or try out our 3D Builder to start designing the shed that fits your space and your style.
Do I Need a Permit to Build a Shed in MD?
Yes, in most cases. Maryland follows the International Residential Code (IRC). Though each county sets its own rules for when a permit is required, here are some common rules across the state:
- The 200 Sq. Ft. Rule: In many Maryland counties, a building permit is not required for sheds 200 square feet or smaller. However, this is not universal. Some counties require permits for anything over 150 or even 100 square feet.
- Zoning is Mandatory: Even if your shed is small enough to skip a building permit, you almost always need a Zoning Permit. This ensures your shed meets “setbacks” (distance from property lines) and doesn’t exceed “lot coverage” limits.
The Foundation: Maryland’s frost line and wind zones mean that larger sheds (usually over 200-400 sq. ft.) must have permanent foundations and tie-downs to meet safety codes.
Do I Need a Permit to Run Electricity to My Shed in MD?
Yes. You’ll need a permit to run electricity to your shed in Maryland, since electrical work is regulated under the state’s adopted electrical codes and enforced locally.
Electrical permits are commonly required for:
- Installing lighting or outlets in a shed
- Running new electrical circuits from a dwelling to a shed
- Adding panels or other electrical components
All electrical work is typically subject to inspection by the local authority having jurisdiction.
Do I Need A Floor Plan For My Shed In MD?
Maybe. Some Maryland jurisdictions require scaled drawings or floor plans as part of a shed permit application, while others may only require a site or plot plan.
When required, floor plans are used to confirm:
- Shed dimensions and layout
- Door and window placement
- Compliance with local building and zoning rules
Documentation requirements vary by jurisdiction and shed size, so local confirmation is recommended.
What Customizations Can I Add To My Shed In MD?
Sheds in Maryland can often be customized with options like doors, windows, siding, roofing materials, and interior features such as shelving or loft space. These upgrades help adapt a shed for storage, workspace, or long-term durability.
Upgrades like electrical wiring, insulation, plumbing, or finished interiors usually require permits and local approval. Because rules vary by county and municipality, confirm allowed features with your local permitting office before finalizing your shed plans.
Shed Permit Requirements For Cities in Maryland
In Maryland, shed permit requirements are typically administered at the county level, though some cities and towns may issue permits or enforce additional local rules. In the table below, each city name links to a brief overview of that city’s shed permit requirements, while the corresponding contact link directs you to the recommended permitting office or official website for confirming current rules before building.
Note: For properties located outside the incorporated cities listed above, shed permit requirements in Maryland are typically administered at the county level. If your city or town is not included here, your county’s permitting office is the best point of contact to confirm if a shed permit is required and what local rules apply.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Annapolis, MD?
Maybe. In Annapolis, shed permit requirements depend on shed size and scope.
Requirements:
- Smaller accessory sheds may only require zoning review, while larger sheds typically require a building permit.
- A site plan showing shed size, placement, and distances from property lines is commonly required.
- Construction plans may be required if the shed exceeds size thresholds or includes structural elements subject to review.
Contact the Annapolis Department of Planning & Zoning for specific submittal requirements and current procedures.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Baltimore, MD?
Yes. A building permit is required to construct a shed in Baltimore City.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be obtained before constructing any new accessory structure.
- Permit applications are submitted through the city’s online permitting system.
- Site information and construction details may be required to verify code compliance.
Contact the Baltimore City Department of Housing & Community Development for permit requirements and application details.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Bel Air, MD?
Yes. A shed permit is required in the Town of Bel Air.
Requirements:
- A shed permit application must be submitted before installation or construction.
- A site plan showing shed placement, size, and setbacks is required.
- Sheds must comply with local accessory structure size and height limits.
Contact the Town of Bel Air Planning & Zoning Department for current shed permit requirements.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Bowie, MD?
Yes. Shed permits are required in Bowie and involve both city and county review.
Requirements:
- A building permit is required for sheds meeting size thresholds or for additional accessory structures.
- Sheds must meet city zoning standards for placement and setbacks.
- Permits must be approved before delivery or construction.
Contact the City of Bowie Permits & Inspections Office for guidance on city and county permitting steps.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Frederick, MD?
Yes. A building permit is required for sheds in the City of Frederick.
Requirements:
- A building permit application must be submitted before construction begins.
- Site plans and construction details may be required for review.
- All sheds must comply with adopted building and zoning codes.
Contact the City of Frederick Building Permits Department for application requirements and submission procedures.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Gaithersburg, MD?
Yes. A shed permit is required in Gaithersburg regardless of shed size.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be obtained before installing or constructing a shed.
- A site plan showing shed placement and property lines is required.
- Structural details may be required depending on shed size and design.
Contact the City of Gaithersburg Permitting & Inspections Division for current shed permit requirements.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Hagerstown, MD?
Yes. A building permit is required for sheds in Hagerstown.
Requirements:
- Accessory structures such as sheds require a building permit before construction.
- Site plans and supporting documentation are required with the application.
- Sheds must comply with zoning setback and placement rules.
Contact the Hagerstown Permits and Inspections Division for permit application details.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Rockville, MD?
Yes. A building permit is required for sheds in Rockville.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be approved prior to shed construction.
- Permit applications are reviewed by the city’s permitting division.
- Zoning compliance for placement and size is required.
Contact the City of Rockville Permits Division for current shed permit requirements and procedures.
Shed Permit Requirements For Counties in Maryland
In Maryland, shed permit requirements are generally enforced at the county level, especially in unincorporated areas. Each county applies its own building and zoning rules for sheds, which can affect permit requirements, placement, and allowable features. In the table below, each county name links to a brief overview of local requirements, while the contact link directs you to the appropriate county permitting office for confirmation before building.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Allegany County?
Yes. Allegany County requires permits for sheds and other detached accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be obtained before constructing or placing a shed on residential property.
- Sheds are reviewed as accessory structures and must comply with county zoning regulations.
- A site plan showing shed placement may be required with the permit application.
Contact the Allegany County Department of Planning & Permits for current shed permit requirements.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Anne Arundel County?
Yes. Anne Arundel County requires permits for sheds and other accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be obtained before constructing or placing a shed on residential property.
- Sheds are subject to zoning review for placement, setbacks, and allowable use.
- Site plans and supporting documentation are typically required with permit applications.
Contact the Anne Arundel County Department of Inspections & Permits for current shed permit requirements.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Baltimore County?
Yes. Baltimore County administers permits for sheds as accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit is required for residential accessory structures, including sheds.
- Shed placement must comply with Baltimore County zoning regulations for setbacks and lot coverage.
- Permit applications may require a site plan and construction details for review.
Contact the Baltimore County Department of Permits, Approvals & Inspections for official guidance and permit requirements.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Calvert County?
Yes. Calvert County requires permits for sheds and other detached accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be obtained before constructing or placing a shed on residential property.
- Sheds are reviewed as accessory structures and must comply with county zoning requirements for placement and setbacks.
- Permit applications typically require a site plan showing the shed’s location on the property.
Contact the Calvert County Department of Inspections & Permits for current shed permit requirements and application details.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Caroline County?
Yes. Caroline County requires permits for sheds and other accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be obtained before shed construction or placement.
- Sheds are subject to zoning review for location and setback compliance.
- Permit applications typically include a site plan and basic construction information.
Contact the Caroline County Permits Department for current shed permit requirements.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Carroll County?
Yes. Carroll County requires permits for sheds and other detached accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be obtained before constructing or installing a shed.
- Sheds are reviewed for compliance with county zoning and building code requirements.
- A site plan showing shed placement is generally required.
Contact the Carroll County Division of Permits & Inspections for current shed permit requirements.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Cecil County?
Yes. Cecil County administers building permits for sheds as accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit is required prior to constructing or installing a shed.
- Sheds must comply with Cecil County zoning regulations, including placement and setback standards.
- A site plan may be required as part of the permit review.
Contact the Cecil County Permits & Inspections Division for official guidance.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Charles County?
Yes. Charles County administers building permits for sheds as accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit is required prior to constructing or installing a shed.
- Sheds must meet county zoning rules related to location, setbacks, and allowable use.
- Permit applications generally require a site plan and basic construction information.
Contact the Charles County Permit Center for official guidance.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Dorchester County?
Yes. Dorchester County regulates sheds as accessory structures and requires permits.
Requirements:
- A building permit is required prior to constructing or installing a shed.
- Sheds must meet county zoning requirements related to placement and allowable use.
- A site plan may be required with the permit application.
Contact the Dorchester County Planning & Zoning Department for permit guidance.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Frederick County?
Yes. Frederick County regulates sheds as accessory structures and requires permits.
Requirements:
- A building permit is required prior to constructing or installing a shed.
- Sheds must comply with county zoning regulations, including placement and setbacks.
- Permit applications generally include a site plan and construction details.
Contact the Frederick County Permits & Inspections Department for permit applications and guidance.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Garrett County?
Yes. Garrett County administers permits for sheds as accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit is required prior to constructing or installing a shed.
- Sheds must comply with Garrett County zoning requirements for placement and setbacks.
- Permit applications may require a site plan and construction details.
Contact the Garrett County Building & Inspections Division for official guidance before starting your shed project.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Harford County?
Yes. Harford County requires permits for sheds and other detached accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be obtained before constructing or placing a shed on residential property.
- Sheds are reviewed as accessory structures and must comply with county zoning requirements for placement and setbacks.
- A site plan showing the shed location on the property is typically required.
Contact the Harford County Building Services for current shed permit requirements and application procedures.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Howard County?
Yes. Howard County requires permits for sheds and other detached accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be obtained before installing or constructing a shed.
- Sheds are reviewed for compliance with Howard County zoning and building code requirements.
- A site plan showing shed location and property lines is typically required.
Contact the Department of Inspections, Licenses & Permits for current shed permit requirements and procedures.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Kent County?
Yes. Kent County administers permits for sheds as accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be obtained before constructing or placing a shed.
- Sheds are reviewed for compliance with county zoning and building code requirements.
- Site plans showing shed placement may be required during review.
Contact the Kent County Department of Planning, Housing & Zoning for current shed permit requirements.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Montgomery County?
Yes. Montgomery County requires a building permit for any shed or detached accessory structure regardless of size, along with compliance with zoning rules.
Requirements:
- A building permit for residential sheds must be obtained before constructing or installing a shed on a property. Permits are required prior to placement or construction of any accessory structure.
- A scaled site plan showing the location of the shed, property lines, and setback distances must be submitted with the permit application, even if structural plans are not required for sheds under 200 square feet.
- Sheds must comply with Montgomery County zoning requirements for accessory structures and may require footing, framing, and final inspections, especially for sheds over 200 square feet.
Contact the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services for current shed permit requirements, application instructions, and inspection processes.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Prince George’s County?
Yes. Prince George’s County requires a building permit for sheds and other detached accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be obtained before constructing or installing a shed on residential property.
- Sheds are reviewed as accessory structures and must comply with county zoning and building code requirements.
- A site plan showing shed location and setbacks is typically required as part of the permit review.
Contact the Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement for current shed permit requirements and application procedures.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Queen Anne’s County?
Yes. Queen Anne’s County requires permits for sheds and other accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be obtained before shed construction or placement.
- Sheds are subject to zoning review for location and setback compliance.
- A site plan may be required with the permit application.
Contact the Permitting & Zoning Department for current shed permit requirements.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Somerset County?
Yes. Somerset County regulates sheds as accessory structures and requires permits.
Requirements:
- A building permit is required prior to constructing or installing a shed.
- Sheds must comply with county zoning regulations related to placement and use.
- Permit applications may require a site plan.
Contact the Somerset County Building & Permitting Department for permit guidance.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in St. Mary’s County?
Yes. St. Mary’s County requires permits for sheds and other detached accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be obtained before constructing or placing a shed.
- Sheds are reviewed for compliance with county zoning and building code requirements.
- A site plan showing shed placement is typically required.
Contact the Department of Land Use & Growth Management for current requirements.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Talbot County?
Yes. Talbot County administers permits for sheds as accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit is required prior to shed construction or installation.
- Sheds must meet county zoning rules for placement and setbacks.
- A site plan may be required with the permit application.
Contact the Talbot County Permits & Inspections for official guidance.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Washington County?
Yes. Washington County requires permits for sheds and other accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be obtained before constructing or placing a shed.
- Sheds are subject to zoning review for placement and setback compliance.
- A site plan may be required as part of the permit application.
Contact the Washington County Department of Permits & Inspections for current shed permit requirements.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Wicomico County?
Yes. A building permit is required for any type of building construction, excluding accessory structures 500 square feet or less, or uses of land.
Requirements:
- A building permit is required prior to shed construction or installation.
- Sheds must comply with county zoning regulations, including placement and lot coverage rules.
- Permit applications typically include a site plan and structure details.
Contact the Wicomico County Building Division for permit guidance before starting your shed project.
Do I Need a Shed Permit in Worcester County?
Yes. Worcester County requires permits for sheds and other accessory structures.
Requirements:
- A building permit must be obtained before constructing or placing a shed.
- Sheds are subject to zoning review for placement and compliance.
- Permit applications typically include a site plan.
Contact the Worcester County Department of Development Review & Permitting for current shed permit requirements.
A Clearer Path to Your Shed Project
Before starting a shed project in Maryland, take time to confirm the rules that apply to your property. Shed permit requirements are enforced locally, usually at the county level, and can vary based on location, size, placement, and planned features.
After confirming requirements with the appropriate county or municipal permitting office, you can explore our Shed Models or use our 3D Shed Builder to begin planning a shed that fits your property and needs.
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See what our past customers have to say about us! (You can also check our third-party Google reviews and Facebook reviews.)
My experience from Sheds Unlimited was great. The website is very professional and informative. Working with Ryan to get our shed exactly how we wanted it was a pleasure and painless. Communication from the office
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My experience from Sheds Unlimited was great. The website is very professional and informative. Working with Ryan to get our shed exactly how we wanted it was a pleasure and painless. Communication from the office about build schedule and delivery was spot-on. Upon delivery Nate was great. He was very informative about the shed and meticulous on moving it to its location. Once he set the shed he asked us if we liked the location. We checked it and wanted it 3″ closer to the house. He was very happy to nudge it over and he saw how happy we were with it. It was a great experience from a great company. This is the only company to purchase a shed from. In the near future we are looking to have a garage installed and it will be from Sheds Unlimited. Thank You!!!
JNB
Sweetwater NJ
February 5, 2026
Our Sheds Unlimited experience began on their informative website. We used their on-line design tool to create our shed, and the project flowed smoothly from design to delivery. Our site is very steep, and I
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Our Sheds Unlimited experience began on their informative website. We used their on-line design tool to create our shed, and the project flowed smoothly from design to delivery. Our site is very steep, and I truly doubted they would be able to deliver our 12’ X 14’ shed. They committed to delivery after reviewing pictures of our narrow street and steep hillside yard. Nate is a master equipment operator. He had our shed sitting perfectly level on our pad about 30 minutes after arrival. I was amazed by what he could with their specialized equipment. Fantastic work Sheds Unlimited!!
Matt
Duncannon, PA
August 12, 2024
What can I say about Sheds Unlimited that hasn’t been said? The process to design what I wanted could not have been easier, the delivery was spot on time and the installation crew (Gideon, Joshua
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What can I say about Sheds Unlimited that hasn’t been said? The process to design what I wanted could not have been easier, the delivery was spot on time and the installation crew (Gideon, Joshua and Leroy) was awesome! I could not say enough good things about Sheds Unlimited, I highly recommend them!
Jonathan Golding
Howell, NJ
September 12, 2023
I started this process of building a garage 2-3 years ago. I called local builders. Two of them never returned my calls, and one guy chewed me out for finding his number on the web
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I started this process of building a garage 2-3 years ago. I called local builders. Two of them never returned my calls, and one guy chewed me out for finding his number on the web and calling him without being referred by someone. I’m not kidding, this is how the building contractor experience is right now in New England. My web searches always turned up Sheds Unlimited and I saw that they had stories from folks in New England who had used them to build garages even though they are in Pennsylvania. I decided to go through the quote process. There was a similar shed & garage company closer to my home in New England so I got quotes from both of them for similar garages. The New England company quoted me a number that was 2 1/2 times higher than Sheds Unlimited quote. I decided to go with Sheds Unlimited. I worked with Sergey in sales over many emails on exactly what I wanted. There was never a moment when he seemed bothered or impatient by my questions and my changes. Everything was possible and everything had a clear dollar amount, the sale never felt rushed. I finally decided on a design and paid the deposit. The local permit process went smoothly with the plans I purchased from Sheds Unlimited. The process of getting a foundation and pad from a local contractor was probably the most difficult part of the process. Contractors that do concrete work, are used to working with builders, not private homeowners. But I found a guy and gave him the plan and I eventually got a nice pad and foundation. I told Michael from Sheds Unlimited the pad was ready and I expected to wait 10+ weeks since it was now summertime. I got the call only 5 weeks later from Gideon the project manager that they were ready. On the scheduled day Nathan and his crew of 3 young, hard working Amish carpenters arrived and discovered that my driveway was the worst-case scenario. They could not get their very long and heavy trailer up our driveway due to the tightness of the turn and narrowness of the driveway. So they had to unload everything from the trailer at the road to my build site which is about 900 feet from the public road. They dealt with local vehicle traffic, and unhelpful local police. The young crew had to run back and forth the 900 feet to walk alongside the forklift to make sure the preconstructed structural members did not swing into trees. Not once did they show any frustration or anger. Nathan was still positive and smiling when I talked with him about it later. So after all this arrival difficulty, when they finally starting constructing the garage, it went up incredibly fast. Every worker knew their part. There was no question about what they should be doing. They practically got the whole 2-story 2 car garage up in one day even after the delay from the driveway issues. They only stopped for the day when torrential rain finally started. They showed up at 5:30 AM the next day and finished the job. I can’t say enough great things about what I witnessed with this construction crew. Like I said, I have never seen anything like them in 26 years of hiring various contractors for home projects.
If you are considering a garage or shed, don’t even think twice. Contact Sheds Unlimited today. I guarantee you have never worked with any company as satisfying as them.
If you are considering a garage or shed, don’t even think twice. Contact Sheds Unlimited today. I guarantee you have never worked with any company as satisfying as them.
Eric C.
Eliot, ME
August 15, 2023