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Do You Need a Permit to Build a Shed in Maryland? A County-by-County Guide

You’ve finally decided it’s time for a new shed. Maybe you need somewhere to store your lawn equipment, a dedicated workshop space, or just relief from the clutter piling up in your garage. You’ve picked out the style, thought about placement, and maybe even started browsing your options online.

Then someone asks: “Did you get your permit?”

It’s a question that trips up a lot of Maryland homeowners every year. Skip it, and you could be looking at fines, a removal order, or serious complications when you go to sell your home. Get it right, and you’re free to enjoy your new structure with zero headaches.

The challenge in Maryland is that there’s no single statewide rule. Each county sets its own thresholds, fees, and application processes. What requires a permit in Montgomery County may not require one in Washington County — and vice versa.

This guide breaks it all down: the statewide framework, a county-by-county breakdown, what happens if you skip the permit, and how to navigate the process smoothly so you can focus on what really matters — getting your shed built.

Maryland’s Statewide Framework: What the State Actually Says

Maryland doesn’t issue shed permits at the state level. Permitting is handled entirely at the county (and sometimes municipal) level. However, all Maryland counties adopt building codes based on the International Residential Code (IRC), published by the International Code Council, which provides a common baseline for construction standards across the state.

Maryland follows the IRC, though each county sets its own rules for when a permit is required. Sheds Unlimited That’s why you’ll see meaningful variation from one jurisdiction to the next.

That said, a few principles hold true across most of Maryland:

The size threshold rule. In many Maryland counties, a building permit is not required for sheds 200 square feet or smaller — but this is not universal. Some counties require permits for anything over 150 or even 120 square feet. Sheds Unlimited

Zoning review is almost always required. 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. Sheds Unlimited

Larger sheds need permanent foundations. 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. Sheds Unlimited

Electricity and plumbing require separate permits. You’ll need a separate permit to run electricity to your shed in Maryland, since electrical work is regulated under the state’s adopted electrical codes and enforced locally. Sheds Unlimited The same applies to any plumbing.

HOA rules are separate from county rules. Even if your county doesn’t require a permit, your homeowners association may require approval. Always check both before breaking ground.

Quick Tip: “No building permit required” does not mean “no approval required.” Setback rules (minimum distances from property lines, fences, and neighboring structures) apply in virtually every Maryland county regardless of permit status. Always call your county zoning office first.

County-by-County Permit Requirements

Here’s a detailed breakdown of shed permit requirements across Maryland’s most populated counties. Always verify the current rules directly with your local permitting office before starting any project — regulations do get updated.

Anne Arundel County

Permit threshold: Sheds over 150 sq. ft.

Anne Arundel County is home to Millersville (where MD Sheds is located), as well as Severna Park, Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Pasadena, and dozens of other communities we serve regularly.

Under the county’s construction code, one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds are exempt from building permits provided the average height doesn’t exceed 10 feet and the floor area doesn’t exceed 150 square feet — except that permits are required for accessory structures located in the Critical Area AmLegal (the Chesapeake Bay shoreline protection zone).

For larger sheds, you’ll submit your application through Anne Arundel County’s online Land Use Navigator (LUN) system. As of December 1, 2025, all new permit applications require online submission via the LUN system. Anne Arundel County The permit fee is based on the estimated value of the work.

Key contacts:

Montgomery County

Permit threshold: All sheds — any size

Montgomery County has the strictest shed permit policy in the state.

A building permit is required to install, move, or construct any shed in Montgomery County. A zoning review for the proposed location of the shed is required, and a site plan showing the proposed location must be submitted electronically. Montgomery County Government

Sheds with a floor area of 200 square feet or less have a flat permit fee of $118.96. For sheds greater than 200 square feet, the fee is $118.96 plus $0.767865 per square foot over 200. Montgomery County Government

For sheds over 200 square feet, drawings and documents will be reviewed for compliance with local and state building codes. These sheds may require footing and framing inspections in addition to the final inspection. For adequately prepared applications, it takes up to 17 days to issue the permit. Montgomery County Government

Key contacts:

  • Department of Permitting Services (DPS): montgomerycountymd.gov/DPS
  • General inquiries: Call 311 (or 240-777-0311 outside the county)

Prince George’s County

Permit threshold: Sheds over 150 sq. ft.

Only one shed that is less than 150 sq. ft. can exist on a property without a permit. Sheds over 150 sq. ft. require a permanent foundation and a permit. Prince George’s County

Building permit applications are completed online through the Momentum portal. The application category for a residential shed permit is Case Type: Building Alteration and Permit Type: Residential Exterior and Grading. Prince George’s County

Building permits are valid for six months after initial issuance, or for six months after the latest inspection took place. Inspections must be requested and conducted at least once every six months until the completion of the shed, when a final inspection is performed and approved. Prince George’s County

For eligible projects, Prince George’s County also offers a Walk-Through process for faster same-day permits. Check the county’s website to see if your project qualifies.

Key contacts:

Howard County

Permit threshold: Sheds over 200 sq. ft.

Building permits are required for sheds when the total square footage is greater than 200 square feet. For sheds larger than 400 square feet, a frost footing is required at least 30 inches below grade. Howard County

Howard County enforces stricter setback rules for properties located in floodplains or historic districts, so if your property falls into either category, contact the Department of Inspections, Licenses & Permits before you do anything else.

As of 2025, Howard County also adopted updated building codes including the 2024 International Residential Code. If you’re planning a larger structure, make sure your plans are drawn to the current code standards.

Key contacts:

Baltimore County

Permit threshold: Sheds over 120 sq. ft.

A building permit is required for accessory structures greater than 120 square feet, and for all accessory structures regardless of size that are located in a proposed or designated Baltimore County Historic District. Baltimore County Government

Baltimore County is one of the stricter jurisdictions in the state, with a lower threshold than most. If you’re in a historic district — and there are many throughout Towson, Catonsville, and other older communities — a permit is required no matter how small your shed.

Key contacts:

Carroll County

Permit threshold: Sheds over 150 sq. ft.

Prefab sheds less than 150 square feet, on skids and movable, do not require a permit — but all setback requirements apply. The site of the new shed is required to be approved by Carroll County Zoning Administration and the Carroll County Health Department to ensure the proposed structure meets proper setbacks from property lines, septic systems, and water infrastructure. Carroll County Government

For sheds that do require a permit, Carroll County can typically issue permits within 10–15 business days if the application is complete, accurate, and code-compliant. Carroll County Government

Key contacts:

Harford County

Permit threshold: All sheds require a permit

Building permits must be secured for all residential accessory structures prior to starting construction. Prefabricated sheds require permits prior to placement on the property. Harford County

For prebuilt or sheds under 200 square feet, no construction plans are needed — just a copy of the site plan and the completed permit application. Most permits are valid for one year from issuance. Harford County

Sheds constructed of lightweight materials such as plastic or aluminum require anchorage to resist tip-over in high wind situations, per manufacturer installation instructions. Harford County

Key contacts:

Washington County (Hagerstown Area)

Permit threshold: Sheds over 400 sq. ft.

Washington County has one of the most permissive thresholds in the state. A building permit is not required for a shed that is 400 square feet or less. For sheds over 400 square feet, a footing and foundation plan is required. Permit cost includes a $65.00 application fee and a $15.00 technology fee, plus $0.10 per square foot of the shed floor plan. Washington County, MD

Even without a building permit, setback rules still apply. Contact Washington County’s zoning office to confirm placement requirements before delivery.

Key contacts:

  • Washington County Permits Office: 747 Northern Ave, Hagerstown, MD 21742
  • Hours: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri — 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Zoning Setbacks: The Rule That Applies Everywhere

Even in counties where small sheds don’t require a building permit, setback requirements almost always apply. Setbacks are the minimum distances your shed must be placed from:

  • Your property lines
  • Your home or other structures
  • Easements (utility corridors, drainage areas)
  • Septic systems and wells (on rural properties)

Setback distances vary by county and by zoning district within each county. In Anne Arundel County, for example, setbacks are determined at the zoning level — not the building permit level. An accessory structure may not be located in a setback from a right-of-way line. AmLegal

If you violate a setback, you may be required to move or remove your shed even if it was otherwise built legally. This is one of the most common and costly mistakes Maryland homeowners make — and it’s entirely avoidable with a quick call to your county zoning office before delivery day.

What Happens If You Skip the Permit?

This is where a lot of homeowners try to roll the dice — and many end up regretting it. Here’s what can happen if you build without the required permits:

Fines and penalties. In Anne Arundel County, fines start at $125 and increase with repeated violations. Pro Landscape Working without a permit can result in fines of hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. Carroll County Government

Forced removal. You could face fines, penalties, or even be required to remove the shed entirely. Pro Landscape Removal orders are not uncommon — and the cost of tearing down and hauling away a structure you paid good money for is a painful lesson.

Property liens. The lack of a permit could result in a lien being placed on your property, causing potential complications when trying to sell or refinance your home. Sheds Unlimited

Complications when selling. Unpermitted structures often show up during home inspections and can derail a sale, reduce your offer price, or force you to retroactively permit (or remove) the structure before closing.

Insurance issues. Unpermitted structures often fail to meet local zoning or safety standards, which could hurt your property value. If your shed isn’t properly authorized, your insurance company might refuse to cover related claims. Pro Landscape

HOA penalties. If your property is part of a homeowners association, you may also face penalties from the HOA for violating their rules and guidelines. Sheds Unlimited

The bottom line: the permit fee is almost always cheaper than the alternative.

Do Prefab and Delivered Sheds Need Permits Too?

Yes — in most Maryland counties, the permit requirement applies to prefabricated sheds just as it does to site-built ones. The fact that a shed arrives on a truck already assembled doesn’t exempt it from local building or zoning rules.

Prefabricated sheds require permits prior to placement on the property Harford County in Harford County, for example. Carroll County has similar language. In Anne Arundel County, your delivery site must meet setback rules regardless of whether the structure technically requires a building permit.

When you order from MD Sheds, our team can walk you through what you’ll need to have in place before your delivery date so there are no surprises.

When Do You Need Additional Permits?

Beyond the basic building permit, there are a few situations that trigger additional permits in virtually every Maryland county:

Adding electricity. Running power to your shed — even just a couple of outlets and a light — requires a separate electrical permit and inspection. This applies whether you’re hardwiring it or running a sub-panel. All electrical work is typically subject to inspection by the local authority having jurisdiction. Sheds Unlimited

Adding plumbing. If you want a utility sink, a bathroom, or any water supply in your shed, that’s a separate plumbing permit.

Adding HVAC. Heating or cooling a shed typically requires a mechanical permit, though requirements vary.

Converting to habitable space. If you’re planning a “she shed,” a home office, or a guest suite, you’re moving into a different category entirely. Habitable spaces are subject to much more rigorous code requirements — insulation, egress windows, ceiling height, and more. If this is your goal, talk to your county building department early in the planning process.

How to Apply for a Shed Permit in Maryland: Step by Step

The process varies by county, but here’s the general flow for most Maryland jurisdictions:

Step 1: Confirm your requirements. Call or visit your county’s permitting office (or check their website) to confirm the current rules for your zoning district. Don’t assume you know the threshold — confirm it.

Step 2: Prepare your site plan. Most counties require a scaled plot plan showing your property lines, all existing structures, and the proposed location of the shed, along with setback distances. This doesn’t need to be a professional survey in most cases — a hand-drawn, to-scale sketch is often acceptable for smaller sheds.

Step 3: Submit your application. There are three ways to apply for a shed permit in Maryland: online, in person, or via email. It’s essential to apply to the specific city or county where you reside, since each jurisdiction has different regulations and processes. Sheds Unlimited

Step 4: Pay the fee. Generally speaking, permit fees for sheds cost around $50–$60, though some areas charge a fee per square foot. Sheds Unlimited Montgomery County’s flat fee is $118.96 for sheds under 200 sq. ft.

Step 5: Wait for approval. The approximate time to get a shed permit in Maryland is 6–17 business days, depending on your county. Sheds Unlimited

Step 6: Schedule your inspections. Most permits require at least a final inspection once the shed is placed and anchored. Larger sheds with foundations may require multiple inspections.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a 10×12 shed require a permit in Maryland? A 10×12 shed is 120 square feet. In most Maryland counties (including Anne Arundel and Howard), this falls below the permit threshold. However, in Baltimore County (threshold: 120 sq. ft.) and Montgomery County (any size), a permit is required. Zoning setback rules still apply everywhere.

Does a 12×16 shed require a permit in Maryland? A 12×16 shed is 192 square feet. This requires a permit in most Maryland counties, as it exceeds the 150 sq. ft. threshold common to Anne Arundel, Carroll, and Prince George’s counties. In Howard County, it falls under the 200 sq. ft. threshold. Always confirm with your specific county.

Do I need a permit for a shed on skids? In some counties, yes. Carroll County exempts portable sheds on skids under 150 sq. ft. from building permits (though setbacks still apply). Most other counties apply the standard size thresholds regardless of foundation type.

Can I get a permit after the fact? Yes, retroactive or “after-the-fact” permits are possible in most Maryland counties, but they typically come with additional fees and may require an inspection to verify code compliance. In some cases, you may need to modify or even tear down portions of the shed to make it compliant.

Do I need a permit for a metal carport? In most cases, yes. Metal carports and buildings are typically subject to the same permit rules as sheds. Check with your county — and note that HOA rules often apply to carports as well.

Quick Reference: Maryland Shed Permit Thresholds

CountyPermit Required When…
Anne ArundelOver 150 sq. ft. (any size in Critical Area)
MontgomeryAny size
Prince George’sOver 150 sq. ft.
HowardOver 200 sq. ft.
Baltimore CountyOver 120 sq. ft. (any size in Historic Districts)
CarrollOver 150 sq. ft. (portable/skid sheds exempt)
HarfordAll sheds
Washington (Hagerstown)Over 400 sq. ft.

Always confirm current rules with your local permitting authority before building.

Final Thoughts

Permit requirements in Maryland aren’t designed to make your life difficult — they exist to make sure structures are safe, properly placed, and don’t create problems for you or your neighbors down the road. Getting it right from the start is almost always the easier, cheaper path.

The most important things to remember:

  • Check your specific county’s rules before you do anything else — this guide is a starting point, not a substitute for your county’s current regulations.
  • Zoning setbacks apply even when building permits don’t — always confirm placement with your county zoning office.
  • Prefab sheds follow the same rules as site-built ones in most Maryland counties.
  • Skipping permits creates real risks — fines, removal orders, liens, and sale complications are all real outcomes.

Ready to Add a Shed to Your Maryland Property?

At MD Sheds, we serve homeowners across Anne Arundel, Howard, Carroll, Baltimore, and surrounding counties. Our Amish-crafted storage sheds, garages, carports, and playsets are built to last — and our team can help you think through sizing, placement, and what to have in order before delivery day.

Browse our shed inventory, use our free 3D Shed Builder, or give us a call at 1-410-729-8747. We’re based right here in Millersville, Maryland, and we know the local landscape inside and out.

👉🏼 Shop Our Sheds | Design Yours in 3D | Contact Us

This post is intended as a general guide and reflects regulations as of 2026. Permit requirements can change. Always verify current rules with your local county permitting office before beginning any construction project.

Sources:

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