Shed permit rules in Chicago, IL — also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations — set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Sheds and accessory structures require Chicago Building Code permit. MCC Title 13 governs. Setback and size requirements per zoning. Contact Chicago Dept of Buildings.
Chicago requires building permits for accessory structures including sheds and garages per MCC Title 13. Zoning regulations govern setbacks and maximum lot coverage. Contact the Chicago Department of Buildings at 312-744-5000 for permit requirements and fees. Sheds and accessory storage structures in Chicago are generally limited to rear yards, with setback requirements from property lines (typically 3-5 feet), maximum heights (typically 10-15 feet), and maximum footprints that vary by lot size. Structures over 120 square feet usually require a building permit; structures with electrical or plumbing always require permits regardless of size. Contact Chicago Building & Safety for specifics.
Building an accessory structure without required permits violates the construction codes and is subject to fines, stop-work orders, and potential demolition orders from the Department of Buildings.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle shed rules.
See how Chicago's shed rules rules stack up against other locations.
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