Carroll County, MD Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)

2's list of work exempt from permit, a one-story detached accessory structure used as a tool or storage shed, playhouse, or similar use skips the building permit process only when it is constructed on skids, remains movable, and its floor area does not exceed 150 square feet. The same amendment bars these sheds from sitting in a drainage or utility easement and requires at least five feet of clearance from a side or rear property line. Even an exempt shed still has to satisfy the county's zoning, health, and building code standards, so placement inside a required yard setback or on a lot with insufficient area can still draw a zoning citation.

Once a shed exceeds 150 square feet, is anchored to a permanent foundation, or does not meet the setback and easement rules, it falls outside the exemption and requires a standard building permit reviewed by the Bureau of Permits and Inspections. 15(13) the applicable permit fee follows the schedule adopted by the Board of County Commissioners and posted in the Building Official's office. 15(15): up to an additional $500 for issuing the after-the-fact permit and up to another $500 for every inspection that would have been required had the permit been obtained before construction began.

1, meaning the contractor or owner must request each inspection at least one business day ahead and cannot start the next phase until the prior one passes.