Jacksonville, FL Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)
Shed permit rules in Jacksonville, FL, 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
- Governing section
- Ordinance Code § 656.403
- Setback (under 15 ft tall)
- 5 feet from lot line
- Setback (over 15 ft tall)
- same as primary structure
- Boathouse/shelter cap
- 900 square feet
- Front yard placement
- Not allowed
Summary
Garden sheds and toolhouses are permitted accessory structures in Jacksonville but must meet height-based setbacks from the lot line.
Accessory uses and structures in a residential district shall include...toolhouses and garden sheds, garden work centers...(d)Accessory use height:(1)Accessory uses or structures less than 15 feet in height may be located in a required rear of side yard, but not less than five feet from a lot line.(2)Accessory uses or structures greater than 15 feet in height shall meet the same setback requirements as the primary structure and shall not exceed the height of the primary structure.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 6 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Jacksonville's Zoning Code lists toolhouses and garden sheds among the accessory structures allowed in residential districts, alongside private garages and boathouses (capped at 900 square feet). Placement is governed by height: a shed under 15 feet tall can go in a required rear or side yard but must stay at least 5 feet from the lot line. Once a shed exceeds 15 feet, it loses that reduced setback and instead must meet the same setback as the main house, and cannot be taller than the house itself. Sheds can't sit in a required front yard, and any use of the structure to house people is barred from required yards entirely. Building permits for the structure itself are governed separately by the City's building code and the Florida Building Code.
Violations & Fines
Code Enforcement can order removal or relocation of a noncompliant accessory structure; the Building Official may also require a permit before work proceeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a shed in my front yard in Jacksonville?
How close to my property line can a shed go?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Jacksonville
How Jacksonville compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·Florida rules heatmap·Compare Jacksonville to another location·View the Florida accessory structures overview
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