How Large can I Build a Structure in my Backyard?
by Guest Post on Mar 16, 2017
Even though it may seem like a basic and straightforward question, this isn't as simple as it seems.
If you are asking how big you can build without having to worry about permits and paperwork, that is a different issue than having an absolute legal size limit. So whether you are building a structure from scratch, or tackling a renovation job that requires more sophisticated services like concrete scanning, you should know your size limits before you begin.
Without a Permit
For building a structure without a permit, you'll want to check with your local regulations as it can vary by region and county. A good rule of thumb is that any shed that is not attached to the main home can be 120 sq ft or smaller without any required permits. Some areas require permits based on different sizes (sometimes taking height into account), or you may require a permit no matter how small your shed is.
This applies to the usual small buildings (i.e sheds) but it may be a different situation for decks, pools, or other structures.
With a Permit
Now you can get creative and build to nearly any size you want, with a few limits of course. For example, a large 2-story garage is certainly a possibility and it's unlikely you'd want to be building anything larger than that. Again, talk to the council people to find out the regulations for big projects. They may or may not need structural drawings before any permits are issued, which may need you to hire on an architect of some kind to produce the right documents.
When it comes to large buildings, there are more things to consider than just the size. The location of your new construction, concerning your existing house as well as where it is located in references to boundaries and waterways on your property. Are you planning on adding electrical service to the building, or even plumbing? If you are going to include several utilities, you may run into trouble if someone was to decide your new fancy garage is a living space. When your property is zoned for a single residential dwelling, then you run into problems. Again, talk to the council office. They should be able to provide you with the details.
Creative Ideas
So you want to do something creative in your yard but can't think of any good ideas? Well, you can certainly do more than just a plain garden shed. For your next backyard upgrade, you might want to consider these projects:
- A deck or raised patio area
- A new decorative flower bed
- A fountain or water feature
- An outside studio (like a shed, but larger with utilities)
- A climbing play structure if you have kids in the family
When you decide to tackle a new big project, just remember that there is more to consider than just "how big". Rules will also be different for a deck than they are for a shed or a pool.
Popular Articles
Three Places to Spend Money on the Exterior of Your Home
When you have the exterior of your home remodeled, you are investing, time, energy and convenience into the project and you want to make sure that...
95796 Views
Homemade Headboards-Make an Upholstered or Wooden Headboard
Homemade headboards can add a lot of personality to any bedroom. They can be coordinated with existing furniture and room decor or they can be the...
74455 Views
When to Use a Brush, Roller or Sponge Brush
Brushes are a good choice for painting trim and woodwork. They are also useful for cutting in the edges around the top and bottom edges and corners...
71821 Views
Creating a Cottage Kitchen with Bead Board
Kitchen decor can range from modern and bold to elegant and elaborate by using strategic kitchen pieces. One of the most popular decorating trends...
52899 Views
Gas Fireplace Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Follow these steps for diagnosing and troubleshooting Gas Fireplaces repairs. For the average DIYer, this may seem intimidating, depending on the...
30639 Views
Latest Articles
How Much Does It Cost To Take A Bath?
Plumbers know that a bath may seem like a relaxing luxury, but the real cost extends far beyond your water bill. The average soak uses 35 to 50...
on Apr 8, 2025
10 Concrete Patio Ideas on a Budget
A concrete patio can be a game-changer for your outdoor space. It is durable, versatile, and can be customized to fit your style. But what if you...
on Mar 25, 2025
Tips for Creating a Stunning Personalized Photo on Canvas
Order the unique beauty of a personalized photo on canvas and bring your memories to life. With a customized photo on canvas, you can transform...
on Mar 7, 2025
Best Areas to Buy Property in Singapore for Long-Term Growth
Singapore's real estate market remains one of the most stable and lucrative in the world. With limited land supply, strong governmental...
on Feb 18, 2025
Troubleshooting Excess Water in Your HVAC Secondary Condensate Drain Pan
When maintaining your air conditioning system, it is easy to overlook the condensate drain pan - until excess water starts pooling in places where...
on Jan 12, 2025
Featured Articles
What Type of Licensed Contractor Should You Hire?
on Feb 28, 2017
Hire Contractors / Estimates

Looking for a specialty project? There are many types of contractors available for your home improvement needs. Finding the right type of...
Sponsored Articles
Best Areas to Buy Property in Singapore for Long-Term Growth
on Feb 18, 2025
Real Estate / Finance

Singapore's real estate market remains one of the most stable and lucrative in the world. With limited land supply, strong governmental...
Actions
Top Categories
- Garden / Landscaping / Patio — 264
- Kitchen / Bathrooms — 240
- Real Estate / Finance — 203
- Appliance / Repair — 186
- Interior Design / Decor — 184
- HVAC / Air Conditioning — 148
- Cleaning / Maintenance — 144
- Improvements / Remodeling — 131
- Plumbing / Basements — 118
- Floors / Tile / Hardwood — 116
- Doors / Garages — 113
- Safety / Security — 113
Articles Archive
More DIY Articles
5 Easy-to-Forget Tasks to Get Your Home Ready for the Holidays
The holidays are ideal for creating new memories with friends and loved ones. However, this time of year can be particularly stressful, especially...
How to Save Energy in Your Home
Your home is where you spend most of your life because many hours in a day are spent in the comfort of our homes. Therefore, it is also where you...
7 Furniture Shopping Tips for Newbies
Purchasing furniture for your new home or apartment is very exciting. You have likely already searched home décor blogs, magazines, and images...
3 Ways to Dress Up a Metal Folding Chairs
Metal folding chairs can be a great addition to a game room, family entertainment area, or simply for guest use. They are often the cheapest and...
What Happens If You Don’t Fix Foundation Problems
The lifespan of a building depends on several factors—and the foundation is one of them. Without a good foundation, it’s hard for a building to...