Detached Garages & Sheds

Accessory buildings, such as sheds and garages require permits prior to construction or placement on a lot. Construction methods for an accessory building (shed) 200 square feet or less are very minimal.  With your permit request you will be asked to provide a site plan that shows where the shed is to be placed on the lot.  Sheds are required to be anchored down (see anchoring handout PDF).

See below for more information of common questions about building a detached garage or placing shed on a property.

 

Accessory Buildings - Frequently Asked Questions

 

How large can a detached accessory structures be?

Detached accessory structures cannot be larger than your house.

If the accessory structure will be larger than 200 square feet in area then the construction requirements of the residential building code apply.  For more information on building an accessory structure larger than 200 square feet contact Building Services at (605) 367-8670.

Do pre-built sheds need permits?

Yes, ANY accessory structure being added to a property needs a permit issued. The materials of the pre-built building (metal, plastic, wood, vinyl etc.) has no bearing on the permit requirement.  

What information will I need to obtain a permit?

Homeowners or builders should come prepared with a site plan showing the location of the new accessory building, building dimensions, property lines and easements. The most accurate site plan will be a survey of the property with the additional details added.

The applicant can work with city staff to determine the location of the accessory structure based on the applicant's preference.

(Accessory buildings under 200 ft2 can be applied for through our Customer Self Service portal (CSS).

Here is an example of a shed site plan

Sample shed site plan

How much does a permit cost?

The minimum permit fee is $40.00 for accessory structures under 200 ft2

How close to the property line can a shed or detached garage be?

The distance from a property line is commonly called a setback.  If it is in the rear yard and more than 10 feet away from the main building, it can get as close as 2 feet to the property line including any overhang.  For specifics on your property, please contact the zoning office at 605-367-8254. 

Does floodplain affect placement of a detached garage or shed?

Yes! If the property is in the floodplain (CHECK YOUR ADDRESS) then additional requirements are necessary. Specific question about garages and sheds in floodplain can be found at the Floodplain webpage.

Resources

Have questions? Contact our team.
 Phone: 605-367-8254
Email: zoning@siouxfalls.gov

Additional Information

Sioux Falls Accessory Building Ordinance

Back to top