Shed permit rules in Harris County, TX — also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations — set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Detached sheds 200 square feet or less may be exempt from building permits in unincorporated Harris County. Larger structures require permits. Sheds in the floodplain may need floodplain development permits. Sheds cannot be built in utility or HCFCD drainage easements.
Harris County Office of the County Engineer generally exempts one-story detached accessory structures with a floor area of 200 square feet or less from building permit requirements. Sheds larger than 200 square feet require building permits. Key considerations include: (1) sheds must not be placed in utility easements or Harris County Flood Control District drainage easements; (2) sheds in the 100-year floodplain may require a floodplain development permit; (3) residential accessory buildings less than 150 square feet may be exempt from certain Class II floodplain permit requirements; (4) sheds with electrical or plumbing connections require appropriate permits regardless of size. Deed restrictions commonly impose additional requirements including setback distances, materials, and size limits. HOA architectural review may be required before shed installation in subdivisions.
Unpermitted structure over 200 sq ft: county enforcement. Shed in easement: required removal. Floodplain violations: county engineering enforcement.
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See how Harris County's shed rules rules stack up against other locations.
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