Des Moines, IA Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)
Shed permit rules in Des Moines, IA, also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations, set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Key Facts
- Permit-free size
- 120 sq ft or less
- Requires a permit
- Sheds over 120 sq ft
- Enforcing office
- Permit and Development Division
- Zoning still applies
- Setbacks, lot coverage under Ch. 134
- Max civil penalty
- $750 per violation
Summary
A detached shed, playhouse, or pet shelter under 120 square feet needs no Des Moines building permit; anything larger, or built for another use, requires one plus continued compliance with zoning.
One-story detached accessory buildings used as tool or storage sheds, playhouses, pet shelters, and similar uses constructed in accordance with the International Residential Code or International Building Code provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet in area and complies with all applicable planning and zoning requirements.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 38 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Des Moines Municipal Code § 26-302(a)(1) exempts one-story detached accessory buildings used as tool or storage sheds, playhouses, or pet shelters from a building permit if the floor area is 120 square feet or less and the structure is built to International Residential Code or International Building Code standards. The exemption only holds if the shed still "complies with all applicable planning and zoning requirements": setback and lot-coverage limits under chapter 134 keep applying even when no permit is filed. A shed over 120 square feet needs a full building permit from the city's Permit and Development Division before construction starts.
Violations & Fines
Building without a required permit lets the building official issue a stop-work order and exposes the owner to a municipal infraction under Code § 1-15, punishable by a civil penalty of up to $750 per violation ($1,000 for repeat offenses).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a small backyard shed in Des Moines?
What if my shed is bigger than 120 square feet?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Des Moines
How Des Moines compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·Compare Des Moines to another location·View the Iowa accessory structures overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.