Shed Permit in Houston, Texas

Permit required?

Sometimes, depending on the project.

Typical threshold: one-story detached accessory structure under 120 sq ft does not require a permit.

When a permit is usually needed

Before building a shed that exceeds the exempt threshold

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

• Official permit page
• Permit portal

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a shed permit in Houston?

Houston exempts one-story detached accessory structures (including storage sheds) with a floor area under 120 square feet from the building permit requirement. Sheds at or above 120 sq ft require a permit. This exemption is based on Section R105.2 of the Houston Amendments to the 2021 IRC. The typical threshold is one-story detached accessory structure under 120 sq ft does not require a permit. Always confirm with the office before starting.

How much does a shed permit cost in Houston?

Fees are set by Houston and are not published here. Contact the office for current amounts.

How long does a shed permit take in Houston?

Processing time for a shed permit in Houston varies by workload and project scope. Contact the Houston Permitting Center for a current estimate.

Where do you apply for a shed permit in Houston?

You can apply through the Houston permit portal or contact the Houston Permitting Center directly. The links are listed on this page.

Official sources

• https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/building-code-enforcement/residential-plan-review