You have found the perfect Action Building and are ready to add valuable storage to your property. Before you schedule delivery, there is a final, critical step you must take: understanding and complying with your local zoning laws. As the property owner, ensuring your new shed meets all local regulations is your responsibility.
This may sound complicated, but it is a straightforward process. This guide provides the essential information you need to research your local laws, secure any necessary permits, and ensure your installation is fully compliant from day one.
What Are Zoning Laws and Why Do They Matter?
Zoning laws are rules set by your city or county that govern how land can be used. For residential properties, these laws often dictate the size, placement, and use of accessory structures like sheds. The goal is to ensure safety, maintain property values, and create a cohesive community appearance.
Ignoring these regulations can lead to serious problems. What are the risks of skipping this step? You could face fines, be forced to move the shed, or even have to remove it entirely at your own cost. A little research now prevents major headaches later.
Key Zoning Regulations to Look For
While specific laws vary between jurisdictions like Columbus, GA, and Fultondale, AL, most focus on a few key areas. When you contact your local officials, these are the questions you need to ask.
- Setback Requirements: This is one of the most common regulations. Setbacks define the minimum distance your shed must be from property lines, your home, other buildings, and public rights-of-way. It is essential to know these distances before you even prepare your site.
- Size and Height Restrictions: Many areas have limits on the maximum square footage and height an accessory building can have without triggering a more complex permit process. A common threshold is 120 or 200 square feet, but this can vary.
- Permit Requirements: The size of your shed is often the main factor that determines if a building permit is needed. Larger buildings almost always require a permit, while smaller ones may not. You must confirm this with your local office.
- Lot Coverage: Some zoning laws limit the total percentage of your property that can be covered by structures (including your house, driveway, and sheds). You will need to ensure your new building does not exceed this limit.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Compliance
Navigating this process is simple when you know who to talk to and what to ask. Follow these steps for a stress-free experience.
Step 1: Identify and Contact Your Local Authority
Your first and most important call is to your city or county’s Planning and Zoning Department or Building Department. You can find their contact information on your local government's website. Be direct and ask them, "I want to install a prefabricated storage shed on my property. What are the zoning rules and permit requirements I need to follow?"
Step 2: Prepare Your Site Plan
If a permit or formal approval is needed, you will likely have to submit a site plan. This does not need to be a professional blueprint. A simple, hand-drawn map of your property will usually work. It should clearly show:
- Your property lines.
- The location of your house and any other existing structures.
- The exact proposed location for your new shed.
- The measured distances from the shed to all property lines and other buildings to prove you meet setback requirements.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Your local office will provide you with any necessary application forms. Fill them out completely and submit them along with your site plan and any building specifications provided by Action Buildings. Be sure to complete this step well in advance of your delivery date, as the approval process can take time.
Investing a small amount of time in research and communication is the best way to protect your investment. By confirming the rules and securing the right approvals, you ensure your new storage shed is a compliant, valuable, and lasting addition to your property.