Permit Required?
Sometimes Required
Typical Fee Range
$292–$600
Exempt if 120 sq ft or less and detached; $292 minimum base fee per hour for permitted work (2026).
Fee Method
Valuation-based
What's Required in Seattle
- No permit required for detached storage sheds up to 120 square feet.
- Shed must not be used for living, home office, or any habitable purpose.
- Must maintain 5-foot setbacks from property lines if over 120 sq ft.
- Any shed with electrical wiring, plumbing, or mechanical work requires a permit regardless of size.
- Maximum height for detached accessory structures is 12 feet (Standard) or 15 feet (Sloped).
- Subject to 'Environmentally Critical Area' (ECA) restrictions if lot has slopes >40%.
How to Get a Shed Permit in Seattle
1
Step 1: Size Verification
Measure the footprint to determine if the 120 sq ft exemption applies.
2
Step 2: ECA Check
Verify if your lot is in an Environmentally Critical Area which removes exemptions.
3
Step 3: Portal Submission
Submit a 'Building' permit request on the Seattle Services Portal if over threshold.
4
Step 4: Fee Payment
Pay the permit fees ($292/hr base rate for 2026).
5
Step 5: Inspection
Schedule a final structural inspection once the shed is anchored.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, 120 sq ft is the maximum exempt size; any shed larger than that needs a permit.
Typically 12 feet, but can go up to 15 feet if it has a sloped roof and meets setbacks.
No, Seattle zoning generally restricts accessory buildings to the rear yard.