Shed Permits in NH: The Ultimate Guide

If you are planning to build a shed in New Hampshire, understanding the permit process is one of the most important first steps. While a shed may seem like a simple addition to your property, local regulations can vary widely depending on your town, the size of the structure, and how it will be used. Skipping this step can lead to fines, delays, or even having to remove your shed entirely. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about shed permits in NH, so you can move forward with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Shed in NH?

Yes, in New Hampshire, the need for a shed permit usually comes down to its size and the specific zoning rules in your local town or city. In many cases, sheds under about 100 to 200 square feet may not require a full building permit. However, even if your shed qualifies for that exemption, you will often still need a zoning or land use permit to make sure it meets setback and placement requirements.

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

Yes, in New Hampshire, you will almost always need an electrical permit if you plan to supply power to a shed. Even if the shed itself is small enough to avoid a building permit, any permanent electrical installation, such as running wires or trenching for a power line, must be permitted and inspected. This work is typically required to comply with the National Electrical Code to ensure safety.

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

Yes, in New Hampshire, you will usually need to submit a site plan or floor plan when building a shed if it exceeds local size limits, often around 200 square feet or more. While smaller sheds may be exempt under the IRC, town zoning rules may still require a site plan showing the shed’s placement relative to property lines, wetlands, and other features.

What Customizations Can I Add To My Shed In NH?

You can customize your shed in a variety of ways to match your needs, style, and intended use. You can choose the size and layout, select from different styles, siding, colors, and roofing materials, and add features like doors and windows for better access and natural light. You can also include interior upgrades such as shelving, lofts, or workspace areas, along with other add-ons that improve functionality, allowing you to create a shed that fits your property instead of settling for a standard design.

Shed Permit Requirements For Cities in New Hampshire

Bedford	Building Permits
Concord	Building Safety
Derry	Code Enforcement & Building
Dover	Permitting
Exeter	Building
Goffstown	Building & Health
Hampton	Building
Hooksett	Code Enforcement
Hudson	Permits & Applications
Keene	Building Safety
Laconia	Code Enforcement & Building
Londonderry	Planning & Economic Development
Manchester	Code Enforcement
Merrimack	Building Code Enforcement & Inspectional Services
Milford	Building Safety
Nashua	Permits
Portsmouth	Inspection
Rochester	Building & Licensing Services
Salem	Inspectional Services
Windham	Building Safety

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Bedford, NH?

Yes, a building permit is required for all sheds, regardless of size, in Bedford, NH, and that single permit covers both building code and zoning compliance review.

• Setbacks: Most residential lots require your shed to be at least 35 feet from the front property line and 25 feet from the side and rear lines, though one shed of 120 sq ft or less may qualify for a reduced 5-foot side and rear setback in GR and R&A zones, as long as it’s not on a permanent foundation.
• Foundation rules: Sheds over 200 sq ft must have supports that extend 48 inches below the frost line; smaller sheds may use blocks or a floating slab.
• Plot plan required: Your permit application must include a plot plan showing all existing structures, distances to lot lines, the proposed shed location, and the location of any existing septic system.
• Historic District: If your property is in Bedford’s Historic District, your project must also be reviewed and approved by the Historic District Commission before a building permit is issued.

When you’re ready to move forward, it’s always a good idea to confirm the current requirements directly with the Bedford Building Department at 603-472-5242 before you build.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Concord, NH?

Yes, sheds larger than 60 square feet require both a building permit and a zoning compliance review before construction can begin.

• Setbacks and yard placement: Your shed must be located in the side or rear yard, not the front yard, and must maintain a minimum 25-foot setback from the front property line. Exact side and rear setbacks vary by zoning district.
• Environmental permits: If your property is near wetlands, a wetland buffer, or shoreland, you may also need a separate state-level permit from NH DES before breaking ground, regardless of shed size.
• Utilities: If you plan to add electricity or plumbing to your shed, separate trades permits are required in addition to the building permit.
• Historical District: If your property is in Concord’s Historical District, you’ll also need Planning Board approval before any exterior work can begin.
• HOA rules: If your neighborhood has a Homeowners’ Association, their rules apply separately from city requirements, so check with your HOA before building.

When in doubt, give Concord’s Code Administration Division a call at (603) 225-8580. Consultations are free, and a quick conversation can save you a lot of headaches down the road.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Derry, NH?

Yes, a building permit is required for all permanent sheds in Derry, NH. If you plan to add electricity, there is an extra step, as a separate electrical permit is required. Homeowners can complete the work themselves by submitting a Homeowner Affidavit along with an electrical diagram.

• Setbacks: Your shed must be at least 15 feet from your side and rear property lines and at least 35 feet from your front property line.
• Plot plan required: You’ll need a plot plan showing your property, existing structures, and boundaries before your application can be approved. The Building Department may have one on file for your property.
• HOA check: If your neighborhood has a homeowners association, check your HOA rules separately, as they may have additional requirements beyond what the town requires.

When in doubt, reach out directly to Derry’s Code Enforcement and Building Department at (603) 432-6148 to confirm the latest requirements before your shed is delivered or any work begins.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Dover, NH?

Yes, sheds 200 square feet or larger do require a building permit, and it’s worth checking with the Planning and Community Development to confirm whether a zoning compliance sign-off is also needed for your specific property.

• Setbacks: Your shed must generally be placed at least 10 feet from property lines in a residential zone, though non-conforming lots may qualify for a reduced distance.
• Separation from your home: The gap between your shed and your house must be no less than the height of your shed’s rear wall. So the taller the shed, the farther it needs to sit from your home.
• Zoning district: Sheds are not allowed in Dover’s Central Business District, so confirm your zone at maps.dover.nh.gov before making any plans.
• Permit application: If a permit is required, you’ll need to submit a site plan and floor plan with dimensions through Dover’s online portal at permits.dover.nh.gov, and plan for a review period of up to 1–2 months.
• HOA rules: If your neighborhood has one, check with your HOA separately; their rules may be stricter than the city’s.

As always, it’s a good idea to confirm the current requirements directly with Dover’s Inspection Services at 603-516-6038 or Community Services at 603-516-6450 before you start building.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Exeter, NH?

Yes, a building permit is required for accessory structures regardless of size, Exeter, NH, and you’ll need to meet in person with Building Department staff to confirm exactly what’s needed for your project.

• Setbacks apply: Your shed must comply with setback requirements for your specific zoning district. Check your zone first using the Exeter Zoning Map, since distances vary across the town.
• Inspections require a 24-hour notice: Once your permit is issued, you’ll need to give the building inspector at least one business day’s heads-up before any required inspection.
• HOA rules may also apply: If your property is part of a homeowners association, check your HOA’s governing documents separately, as their approval may be required on top of the town permit.

When in doubt, reach out directly to the Exeter Building Department at 603-773-6112 or stop by during business hours to confirm the exact requirements for your shed before you build.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Goffstown, NH?

Yes, in Goffstown, NH, a building permit is required for all sheds, regardless of size, since the town does not provide a minimum size exemption.

• Setbacks: Minimum of 25 feet from the front, 30 feet from the rear, and 15 feet from each side in standard residential zones.
• Plot Plan: A hand-drawn site plan showing shed placement and setbacks is required with the application.
• Construction Drawings: Submit two sets of plans, including the floor plan and all four sides of the shed.
• Wetland Buffer: No building is allowed within 100 feet of wetlands or surface water.
• Utilities: Separate permits are required for any electrical or plumbing work.
• Condominiums: HOA or condo association approval may also be needed.
• Contact: Confirm current requirements with the Goffstown Building Department at (603) 497-8990 ext. 114 before starting your project.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Hampton, NH?

Yes, in Hampton, NH, a building permit is required for all sheds, regardless of size, with the 100-square-foot threshold only affecting setback rules. Smaller sheds must be at least 4 feet from side and rear lines and meet the front setback requirements, while larger sheds must comply with all zoning requirements. You will need to submit a plot plan with your application, and only two accessory structures are allowed per lot. Additional rules may apply for flood zones or HOAs, so it is best to check with the Hampton Building Department before you begin.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Hooksett, NH?

Yes, in Hooksett, sheds at or over 200 sq ft require a building permit from the Code Enforcement Office.

• Setbacks for sheds under 200 sq ft: Your shed must be at least 10 feet from all property lines and cannot be placed in front of your home’s front building line.
• Setbacks for sheds 200 sq ft or larger: Full district setbacks apply, for example, 35 ft front / 20 ft side / 25 ft rear in a Low Density Residential (LDR) zone.
• Utilities: Adding electricity or plumbing to any shed, regardless of size, triggers additional permit requirements.
• Wetlands/Overlay Districts: If your property is near wetlands or falls within a special overlay district, extra review or a Conditional Use Permit may be required.
• HOA Rules: If your property is part of a homeowners’ association, additional size or placement restrictions may apply in addition to town requirements.

When in doubt, reach out to Hooksett’s Building/Code Enforcement Office at 603-485-4117 before you start building. They can confirm exactly what applies to your property.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Hudson, NH?

Yes, in Hudson, NH, a building permit is required for all residential sheds, regardless of size, and your application will also undergo a zoning review. Sheds must be placed in the rear yard only, with setback distances depending on your zoning district, such as 20 feet from the side and 25 feet from the rear in R 1 zones, or 15 feet from the side and 20 feet from the rear in R 2 zones. Pre-built or delivered sheds still require a permit, and adding utilities or a permanent foundation may bring additional requirements. If you have an HOA, extra rules may apply, so it is best to confirm details with Hudson’s Inspectional Services Division before moving forward.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Keene, NH?

Yes, sheds that are 125 square feet or larger must comply with full zoning setback requirements and require a building permit.

• Setbacks: Sheds 125 sq ft or larger must meet the setback distances for your specific zoning district. Look up your zone on the Keene Zoning Map to find your exact requirements.
• Utilities: Adding electricity or plumbing to your shed triggers separate electrical and plumbing permit requirements, regardless of shed size.
• Special areas: If your property is in Keene’s Historic District, you may need a Certificate of Appropriateness. If it’s in a flood hazard area, a Floodplain Development Permit is also required.
• Foundation type: Sheds built on a permanent foundation are more likely to require a permit than portable or skid-based sheds.

When in doubt, reach out directly to Keene’s Community Development office at (603) 352-5440 or [email protected] to confirm what’s required for your specific property before you build.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Laconia, NH?

Yes, in Laconia, NH, sheds under 150 square feet do not require a building permit, while sheds 150 square feet or larger require a Minor Building Permit through the City’s Code Enforcement Department. All sheds must meet the setback requirements for your zoning district, and if the structure is close to a property line, the City may require an as-built survey before issuing a certificate of occupancy. Adding electricity will require a separate electrical permit, and sheds placed on a permanent foundation may need additional review. If your property is part of an HOA, extra rules may apply, so it is best to confirm your project details with Laconia’s Code Enforcement Department before getting started.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Londonderry, NH?

Yes, the Town of Londonderry currently lists two different shed size limits. One source allows sheds under 400 square feet without a permit, while a newer update lowers the limit to 200 square feet, so it is best to confirm with the town before building.

• Setbacks: 40 feet from the front and 15 feet from the sides and rear. Corner lots require larger street-facing setbacks.
• Foundations: Permitted sheds need 48-inch frost depth footings. Smaller sheds do not require permanent foundations.
• Prefab Sheds: Prefabricated sheds follow the same permit and zoning rules as site-built sheds.
• Electricity: A separate electrical permit is required for wiring.
• Permit Fees: $25 application fee plus $6 per $1,000 of project value, with a $31 minimum.
• Applications: Must be submitted in person.
• Contact: Call the Building Department at 603-432-1100 ext. 115 for current requirements.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Manchester, NH?

Yes, Manchester requires a building permit for shed construction, and since the city does not clearly provide a size exemption, it is best to assume a permit is needed for any shed. Your structure must follow zoning setback rules, and you will need to submit a plot plan showing its placement and distances from property lines. If you plan to add electricity or plumbing, additional permits will be required. For the most accurate and current information, contact the Planning and Community Development Department at 603-624-6450 or [email protected].

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Merrimack, NH?

Yes, sheds 160 square feet or larger do require one. Your shed must comply with local zoning setback rules (minimum distances from property lines), regardless of size. Contact the Planning & Zoning Division to confirm exact distances for your lot.

• Permit fees: If a building permit is required, expect to pay a $25 application fee plus $0.12 per square foot (e.g., a 200 sq ft shed would cost about $49 total).
• Electrical work needs its own permit: If you plan to run electricity to your shed, a separate electrical permit is required.
• Plan review takes time: Once submitted through the town’s online portal with your site plan and building plans, expect a 5–7 business day review, or up to 2 weeks during busy periods.

When in doubt, reach out directly to the Merrimack Building Code Enforcement Division at (603) 420-1730 or [email protected] to confirm the latest requirements before you start building.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Milford, NH?

Yes, you need a building permit for sheds over 200 square feet. You should confirm with the Building Department whether your specific shed size is exempt before assuming no permit is needed.

• Setbacks: apply and vary depending on your zoning district (such as Res “A,” Res “B,” or Res “R”), so check which district your property is in to find out exactly how far your shed must sit from your property lines.
• Electrical or plumbing work inside your shed requires separate permits, and any mechanical or gas-related work must be permitted through the Milford Fire Department at 603-249-0680.
• Permits are valid for one year from the date of issue, so plan your build timeline accordingly.

When in doubt, reach out to the Town of Milford Building Safety Department at 603-249-0620 or visit their online permitting portal at permiteyes.us/milford to confirm the latest requirements before you start planning your shed.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Nashua, NH?

Yes, in Nashua, every shed requires a Land Use Permit regardless of size, but if your shed is 200 square feet or larger, you’ll also need a Building Permit. Sheds under 200 square feet skip the building permit, but still can’t skip the Land Use Permit.

• Plot Plan required: You must submit a plot plan showing exactly where your shed will sit on your property. If you don’t have one, the Building Safety Department can pull it from your property file.
• Setbacks: Sheds cannot be placed in the front yard, and side and rear setbacks vary by zoning district. Your specific zone determines how far your shed must sit from property lines.
• Permit fees: The minimum fee for a residential shed under 200 sq ft is $30; larger sheds are calculated at $0.18/sq ft plus a $50 base fee. If you build without a permit first, expect a penalty surcharge of 100% of the applicable fee.
• Electrical, plumbing, or gas additions: Any of these features requires separate permits beyond the standard shed permits.
• HOA rules: If your neighborhood has a homeowners’ association, check their guidelines too, they may have additional requirements on top of the city’s rules.

When in doubt, reach out to the City of Nashua Department of Building Safety at 603-589-3080 or [email protected] to confirm the exact requirements for your property and zoning district before you build.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Portsmouth, NH?

Yes, in Portsmouth, NH, a building permit is required for all new shed construction, regardless of size, and zoning compliance is reviewed as part of that same building permit process.

• Setbacks: There is no single citywide setback rule. Your required distances from property lines depend on your specific zoning district, which you can look up by searching your address on the city’s MapGeo tool.
• Site plan required: Your application must include an accurate site plan showing your lot, all existing structures, and the shed’s proposed location with setback measurements. Incomplete plans are the top cause of delays.
• No open permits: The city will not issue a new permit if there are any unresolved or uninspected permits already on your property, so clear those up first.
• Historic District or flood zone: If your property is in Portsmouth’s Historic District or a FEMA flood hazard area, additional reviews and restrictions apply and can add significant time to your approval.

As always, it’s best to confirm your specific requirements directly with the Portsmouth Inspection Department by calling (603) 610-7243 or visiting during walk-in hours before you build or buy anything.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Rochester, NH?

Yes, all sheds require a building permit. Sheds of 200 sq ft or less qualify for the simpler Express Building Permit, while those over 200 sq ft require a Minor Building Permit with a more involved application process.

• Setbacks: Your shed must meet the setback requirements for your specific zoning district, and all structures on your lot must be at least 10 feet apart.
• Foundation: Sheds 600 sq ft or larger must be built on a frost wall or engineered slab, a basic gravel pad or skids won’t meet code at that size.
• Site plan required: Your permit application must include a site plan showing where your shed will sit on your property, with setback distances clearly labeled.
• Permit fee: Fees are calculated at $9.00 per $1,000 of construction cost, plus a $10 application fee. If your shed is already built, expect to pay double the normal fee.
• HOA: If your property is part of a homeowners association, you’ll need to check your HOA rules separately, as their approval may be required in addition to the city permit.

Always confirm the latest requirements directly with Rochester’s Building, Zoning & Licensing Services at (603) 332-3508 before starting your project.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Salem, NH?

Yes, in Salem, NH, a building permit is required for sheds of all sizes. There is no square footage threshold that exempts you from needing one, and “Shed” is its own listed category on the town’s official Building Permit Application form.

• Setbacks depend on shed size: Sheds up to 100 sq ft can sit as close as 1 foot from rear and side lot lines, sheds up to 200 sq ft need at least 10 feet from the rear lot line, and sheds over 200 sq ft must meet full district setbacks (e.g., 30 ft front, 15 ft side, 30 ft rear in Residential zones).
• Environmental setbacks apply near water: If your property is near a wetland, pond, lake, or stream, stricter setbacks (ranging from 40 to 100 feet) override the standard zoning rules.
• Lot coverage is capped at 30%: Your shed’s footprint counts toward the combined total of all structures on your lot, so make sure you’re not pushing past that limit.
• Permit fees: $0.40 per square foot (minimum $100). If you build without a permit first, that fee triples, so always pull the permit before you build.

When in doubt, give Salem’s Inspectional Services Division a call at 603-890-2020 before you start building. They can confirm the latest rules for your specific lot.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Windham, NH?

Yes, in Windham, NH, sheds 201 square feet or larger do need a permit. All sheds must be placed in the side or rear yard and meet the required setback distances for your property. If your property is in a watershed district or part of an HOA, additional rules may apply. For confirmation, contact the Community Development Department at 603-432-3806 before starting your project.

Shed Permit Requirements For Counties in New Hampshire

Belknap County	County Website
Carroll County	County Website
Cheshire County	County Website
Coös County	County Website
Grafton County	County Website
Hillsborough County	County Website
Merrimack County	County Website
Rockingham County	County Website
Strafford County	County Website
Sullivan County	County Website

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Belknap County, NH?

Yes, the requirement for a shed permit in Belknap County, NH, depends on the zoning regulations in your specific town, since each municipality has its own rules. Permit requirements are often based on the size and type of the shed being built. Even if a building permit is not required, you may still need zoning approval and must comply with local setback requirements.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Carroll County, NH?

Yes, in Carroll County, NH, shed permit requirements vary by town and are often based on the size of the structure. Many municipalities may not require a full building permit for smaller sheds, but local zoning regulations must still be followed. In many cases, a zoning permit or land use permit is still required, along with compliance with setback and placement requirements.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Cheshire County, NH?

Yes, whether a shed permit is required in Cheshire County, NH, depends on the zoning rules in your specific town. In many areas, detached accessory structures under 200 square feet may not require a building permit. Even so, homeowners are often still required to obtain a local zoning or land use permit to confirm that the shed meets setback and placement regulations.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Coös County, NH?

Yes, whether you need a shed permit in Coös County, NH, depends on the zoning regulations in your specific town. In many areas, smaller non-habitable sheds may not require a building permit, especially if they fall within certain size limits. However, even when a building permit is not required, a local zoning or land use permit may still be necessary to ensure the structure complies with setback and placement requirements.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Grafton County, NH?

In many areas, smaller single-story sheds without utilities may be exempt from permit requirements. Larger sheds, or properties located in towns with stricter zoning regulations, will usually require a permit before construction.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Hillsborough County, NH?

Yes, in the Town of Hillsborough, NH, a building permit is generally not required for sheds that are 168 square feet or smaller, as long as the structure is under 12 feet in height and does not have a permanent foundation. Permits are typically required for larger sheds, structures placed on permanent foundations, or sheds that include utilities such as electricity or plumbing.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Merrimack County, NH?

Yes, in Merrimack, NH, sheds smaller than 160 square feet are generally exempt from building permit requirements. If the shed is 160 square feet or larger, you will typically need to obtain a building permit through the Town of Merrimack Fire Department and Building Division before construction.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Rockingham County, NH?

Whether you need a shed permit in Rockingham County, NH, depends on the zoning regulations in your specific town. In many areas, sheds larger than 200 square feet typically require a building permit. Smaller sheds may be exempt from building permit requirements, but homeowners are often still required to obtain zoning or land use approval to ensure the structure meets local setback and property line regulations.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Strafford County, NH?

Yes, in many cases, a building permit is required for sheds in Strafford County, NH, especially for structures larger than 100 square feet. The Town of Strafford specifically requires permits for new sheds exceeding this size limit, and all sheds must also comply with local setback and placement requirements.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Sullivan County, NH?

Whether a shed permit is required in Sullivan County, NH, depends on the zoning rules of the specific town or municipality. In many areas, smaller sheds may be exempt from building permit requirements, but local regulations often establish their own size limits and setback standards. Homeowners should still verify local zoning and land use requirements before installing a shed.

Find the Perfect Storage Shed for Your Needs

If you are ready to move forward, choosing the right shed makes all the difference. Sheds Unlimited offers a wide selection of high-quality storage sheds in various sizes and styles to fit your needs, whether you want a simple storage solution or a fully customized structure. We also offer a range of upgrade options, including windows, doors, ramps, shelving, lofts, and exterior finishes, so you can design a shed that meets your functional needs and personal style.