Alachua County

Shed Permit Exemption for Storage Sheds Under 150 Square Feet

In Alachua County, the construction or placement of one (1) storage shed on a residential lot located in the unincorporated area of the county may be exempt from a building permit, provided the shed meets all of the following standards:

1. The property contains an existing single-family dwelling or manufactured home.

2. The shed is not intended for human habitation.

3. The shed does not exceed 150 square feet and is clearly subordinate to the main dwelling.

4. The shed does not include plumbing, electrical, mechanical, or gas systems unless separately permitted.

If your shed meets these requirements, you may request a permit exemption rather than applying for a full building permit.

What the Shed Permit Exemption DOES NOT Cover

Even if your shed qualifies for a permit exemption, it is not exempt from compliance with the following regulations:

1. Florida Building Code and applicable Florida Statutes

2. Notice of Commencement requirements (Florida Statute 713.135(6))

3. Florida Product Approval requirements (Florida Administrative Code Rule 9B-72)

4. Protection of regulated natural and historic resources, including floodplain regulations under Chapter 406 of the Alachua County Unified Land Development Code

5. Zoning regulations, including setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage

6. Any plumbing, electrical, mechanical, or gas work, which must be separately permitted and inspected

Alachua County Building Permit Division Contact