Austin Shed Permit Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Planning to build a shed in Austin, Texas? Here is everything you need to know about permit requirements, including the 200 square foot threshold, setback distances, fees, the application process, and what happens if you skip the permit.

The 200 Square Foot Rule

Austin's shed permit threshold is 200 square feet — one of the most generous in Texas and among major U.S. cities. If your shed's total footprint (measured from the exterior walls, including any overhangs in some cases) is 200 sq ft or less, you generally do not need a building permit from the City of Austin.

For reference, common shed sizes and whether they require a permit in Austin:

• 8x10 (80 sq ft): No permit required
• 10x12 (120 sq ft): No permit required
• 10x16 (160 sq ft): No permit required
• 10x20 (200 sq ft): Borderline — confirm with the city
• 12x20 (240 sq ft): Permit required
• 14x20 (280 sq ft): Permit required

Setback Requirements (Even Without a Permit)

Even if your shed is under 200 sq ft and does not require a permit, you must still comply with Austin's setback requirements:

• Front setback: 5 feet from the front property line
• Side setback: 5 feet from each side property line
• Rear setback: 5 feet from the rear property line

Violating setback requirements can result in the city requiring you to move or remove the shed, regardless of whether a building permit was required. If you are unsure of your exact property lines, consider hiring a surveyor before placing your shed.

Permit Fees

When a permit is required (sheds over 200 sq ft), Austin charges between $50 and $200 depending on the project scope. This fee covers the building permit application and basic inspections. Additional fees may apply for plan review if the project is complex.

How to Apply for an Austin Shed Permit

1. Prepare a site plan showing the shed location on your property, dimensions, and distances from all property lines
2. Visit Austin Development Services at One Texas Center (505 Barton Springs Road) or apply online through the Austin Build + Connect portal
3. Submit your application with the site plan and pay the permit fee
4. Wait for approval — simple shed permits are often approved within 1-5 business days
5. Post the permit visibly at the construction site before starting work
6. Schedule the final inspection once construction is complete

What Happens Without a Permit in Austin?

Building a shed over 200 sq ft without a permit in Austin can result in:

• Fines from the city code compliance department
• A stop-work order if construction is in progress
• Requirement to apply for a retroactive permit (which may cost more)
• In extreme cases, an order to demolish the structure
• Complications when selling your home — unpermitted structures must be disclosed

Additional Austin-Specific Considerations

• HOA rules: Many Austin neighborhoods have HOA covenants that restrict shed placement, size, materials, and appearance — often stricter than city rules
• Call 811: Texas law requires you to call 811 at least 48 hours before digging to locate underground utilities
• Flood zones: If your property is in a flood zone, additional requirements apply even for small sheds
• Impervious cover: Austin has impervious cover limits in many zones — sheds with permanent foundations count toward this limit
• Heritage trees: Austin's tree protection ordinance may affect shed placement if heritage trees are nearby

View complete Austin shed permit data on PermitRules →

Also check: Austin deck permits · Austin fence permits · Austin pool permits · Austin garage permits · Austin ADU permits