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Spokane County, WA Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Shed permit rules in Spokane County, WA, 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-exempt size
Under 200 sq ft, one story
Setbacks apply
Yes, even if permit-exempt
Typical side/rear setback
5 feet in residential zones
Combined cap (30k–1 acre)
1,000 sq ft or 10% of lot
Pre-primary structure
One allowed, no occupancy/business

Summary

In unincorporated Spokane County, a one-story detached storage shed under 200 sq ft needs no building permit, but must still meet zoning setbacks. Total accessory-structure floor area is capped by lot size under Zoning Code Chapter 14.606.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Spokane County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

One accessory structure shall be permitted prior to the construction of a primary use. This structure is not for residential occupancy, business use, or outside vehicle repair.

Full Breakdown

Spokane County Zoning Code Table 606-4 limits the combined square footage of accessory structures by lot size: 1,000 sq ft or 10% of lot (whichever is greater) on lots 30,000 sq ft to 1 acre, up to 3,000 sq ft on lots to 2 acres, 4,000 sq ft above that, and 10% of lot on very large parcels. One accessory structure may be built before the primary use exists, but it cannot be used for residential occupancy, business use, or outside vehicle repair. Setbacks (typically 5 ft side and rear in residential zones) apply even when no building permit is required. Under Washington's adopted building code, one-story detached accessory buildings under 200 sq ft are exempt from a building permit.

Violations & Fines

Sheds placed inside required setbacks, exceeding lot-coverage caps, or used for prohibited occupancy are code violations subject to Spokane County Building and Planning enforcement and correction orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for a backyard shed in Spokane County?
A one-story detached accessory building under 200 square feet is exempt from a building permit, but it must still meet zoning setback requirements.
How much shed area can my lot hold?
It depends on lot size; for lots from 30,000 sq ft to 1 acre the cap is 1,000 sq ft or 10% of the lot, whichever is greater.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Spokane County

All Spokane County rules

How Spokane County compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·Compare Spokane County to another location·View the Washington accessory structures overview

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