You’ve found the perfect Action Building to solve your storage needs, and you're ready to move forward. Before you finalize your plans, there is one critical question you must answer: do you need a permit? The world of building permits can seem confusing, but navigating it is a crucial step to ensure your new shed is compliant with local laws.
Understanding the regulations in your specific city or county is your responsibility as the property owner. This guide will help you understand when a permit is typically required and how to approach the process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free installation.
When is a Permit Typically Required?
Permit requirements are not universal; they vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another across Alabama and Georgia. However, most regulations are based on a few common factors.
- Size of the Shed: This is the most common trigger for a permit. Many municipalities have a size threshold, often around 120 or 200 square feet. If your shed is larger than this limit, a permit is almost always required. For example, a small 8x12 shed might not need a permit, but a larger 12x24 building likely will.
- Foundation Type: The type of foundation can influence permit needs. While our sheds are installed on solid concrete blocks, some areas may have different rules if you decide to pour a permanent concrete slab foundation.
- Electrical or Plumbing Work: If you plan to run electricity or plumbing to your shed to create a workshop or finished space, you will absolutely need a permit. This work must be inspected to ensure it meets safety codes.
- Zoning and Location: Your property's zoning classification and where you intend to place the shed matter. Local ordinances, known as setback requirements, dictate how far a structure must be from property lines, other buildings, and public rights-of-way. Placing a shed too close to these boundaries can violate local codes.
How to Navigate the Permitting Process
Finding out what you need is more straightforward than you might think. A little proactive research can save you from significant headaches later.
Step 1: Contact Your Local Building Department
The first and most important step is to call or visit the website for your local city or county building department. Whether you live in Columbus, GA, or Montgomery, AL, this office is your definitive source for information. Ask them directly: "I am planning to install a prefabricated storage building; what are the permit requirements?"
Step 2: Gather the Necessary Documents
If a permit is required, the building department will provide you with an application and a list of required documents. This often includes:
- A Site Plan: This is a simple drawing of your property showing your house, property lines, and the proposed location of your new shed. You will need to mark the distances from the shed to property lines and other structures to show you are meeting setback requirements.
- Building Specifications: Action Buildings can provide you with the engineered drawings and specifications for your chosen shed model. These documents show the building department that your shed is designed to meet established safety and quality standards.
Step 3: Submit Your Application and Pay Fees
Once you have all your paperwork in order, submit the application to the building department along with any required fees. The review process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, so it is vital to complete this step well before your scheduled delivery date.
Why You Shouldn't Skip the Permit Process
It can be tempting to bypass the permitting process to save time and money. However, this is a risky decision that can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Fines and Penalties: If the county discovers an unpermitted structure, they can levy significant fines.
- Forced Removal: In a worst-case scenario, you could be ordered to remove the building from your property at your own expense.
- Issues with a Future Sale: Unpermitted structures can create major problems when you try to sell your home, potentially delaying or even canceling a sale.
Taking the time to secure the proper permits is a small investment that protects your property and your new Action Building for the long term. By confirming the rules with your local officials, you ensure your project proceeds smoothly and complies with all regulations from day one.
Continue reading about the various regulations and taxes required for your shed in our blog!