Shed Permit in Austin, Texas
By Mario Bailey Last verified 2026-06-17 · 2 official sources
Quick answer
Austin exempts one-story detached tool and storage sheds from a building permit if they are no larger than 200 square feet in floor area, no taller than 15 feet, contain no plumbing, and are not located in a flood hazard area. Sheds that exceed any of these limits require a residential building permit through Austin Development Services. Applications are submitted through the AB+C portal.
Permit required?
Sometimes, depending on the project.
Typical threshold: one-story detached accessory structures used as tool or storage sheds with floor area no greater than 200 sq ft and no more than 15 ft in height and no plumbing and not in a floodplain are exempt.
When a permit is usually needed
Before building a shed that meets or exceeds the 200 sq ft area or 15 ft height threshold or that will have plumbing or is in a floodplain
Permit cost and what affects it
Fees are set by the locality and are not published here. See the official fee schedule or contact the office for current amounts.
Permit costs generally depend on the project valuation, the scope of work, and the inspections required. Ask the office how the fee is calculated for your specific project.
Where to apply
Austin Development Services Department
- 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Austin, TX 78752
Frequently asked questions
- Do you need a shed permit in Austin?
- Austin exempts one-story detached tool and storage sheds from a building permit if they are no larger than 200 square feet in floor area, no taller than 15 feet, contain no plumbing, and are not located in a flood hazard area. Sheds that exceed any of these limits require a residential building permit through Austin Development Services. Applications are submitted through the AB+C portal. The typical threshold is one-story detached accessory structures used as tool or storage sheds with floor area no greater than 200 sq ft and no more than 15 ft in height and no plumbing and not in a floodplain are exempt. Always confirm with the office before starting.
- How much does a shed permit cost in Austin?
- Fees are set by Austin and are not published here. Contact the office for current amounts.
- How long does a shed permit take in Austin?
- Processing time for a shed permit in Austin varies by workload and project scope. Contact the Austin Development Services Department for a current estimate.
- Where do you apply for a shed permit in Austin?
- You can apply through the Austin permit portal or contact the Austin Development Services Department directly. The links are listed on this page.
Official sources
Last verified: 2026-06-17 Report an error on this page