Apex, NC Accessory Structures: Shed Rules (2026)

Apex UDO Sec. 5.2.7 governs Dimensional Standards for Detached Accessory Structures. Sec. 5.2.7.E places sheds in the encroachment table: 'Can be located no closer than 5 ft from the side or rear property line.' Sec. 5.2.7.B.1 requires no detached accessory building to occupy more than 35 percent of the area of the required yard, nor be located closer than 10 ft to any principal building. Sec. 5.2.7.B.2 limits accessory structures (other than driveways) to behind the front building line UNLESS the structure is at least 60 ft from the front property line. Sec. 5.2.7.C caps detached accessory structure height at no more than 5 ft taller than the principal building. Sec. 5.2.7.D requires a minimum 10 ft setback from the side lot line abutting the street on a corner lot. The materials and color matching rule (UDO Sec. 4.5.3.B.1) requires accessory structures in residential zones to be constructed of similar materials and colors as the main dwelling unit — but sheds and other accessory structures 12 ft by 12 ft or smaller (144 sq ft) are expressly exempt from this requirement. Portable storage containers (PODS) are prohibited as a permanent use in residential districts (Sec. 4.5.3.B.2). On the building code side, North Carolina adopts the 2018 NC Residential Code (administered by Apex Inspections under NCGS § 160D-1107), which exempts one-story detached accessory structures up to 12 ft x 12 ft (144 sq ft) from a building permit when used as tool sheds, playhouses, or similar uses with no plumbing, electrical, or mechanical systems. Larger sheds, or any shed with electrical service, require a building permit through Apex Building Inspections.