Herndon, VA Accessory Structures: Shed Rules (2026)

Shed regulations in Herndon are governed by the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC), which adopts the International Residential Code, and the Herndon Zoning Ordinance. Under the USBC, accessory buildings that do not exceed 256 square feet in floor area and are a single story are exempt from the building permit requirement. This is more generous than the 120-square-foot threshold used in some other states. The exemption covers the building permit itself; zoning approval and electrical permits (if the shed will have power) are still required.

For zoning purposes, Herndon requires accessory structures including sheds to meet minimum setback distances from property lines. In most residential districts, sheds must be set back at least 5 feet from side and rear lot lines and cannot be located in front yards. Sheds also count toward maximum lot coverage and impervious surface calculations, which typically cap total building and paved coverage at 25 to 40 percent depending on zoning district. Height is usually limited to 15 feet for accessory structures.

Sheds over 256 square feet or sheds with plumbing require a full building permit with submitted plans, foundation inspection, and final inspection. Pre-fabricated sheds are treated the same as site-built for zoning purposes. Sheds cannot be used as sleeping quarters or as independent dwellings. If the shed will have electricity, a separate electrical permit is required regardless of shed size. HOAs in Herndon frequently impose more restrictive rules on shed size, style, color, materials, and placement. Even though the town may not require a building permit for a small shed, the HOA may require an architectural review and written approval before construction.