Madison, AL Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)
Shed permit rules in Madison, AL, 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 threshold
- Over 200 sq ft
- No-permit sheds
- 200 sq ft or smaller
- Minor shed placement
- Rear two-thirds of lot
- Rear setback (larger sheds)
- 10 feet
- Contact
- Planning 256-772-5630
Summary
A shed or storage building larger than 200 square feet requires a City of Madison building permit. Sheds 200 square feet or smaller do not need a permit, but must still meet zoning placement and setback standards.
Minor accessory structures not exceeding eight feet in height, 200 square feet in area and located within the rear two-thirds of the lot. Detached accessory buildings... exceeding eight feet in height or 200 square feet in area shall comply with the following minimum standards. Rear Yard Setback: 10 feet. Maximum height: 15 feet.
Full Breakdown
Per the City's building FAQ, a shed or storage building (pre-built or built on site) larger than 200 square feet requires a building permit, while accessory buildings/sheds 200 square feet or smaller do not. Even permit-exempt sheds must comply with the Zoning Ordinance: minor accessory structures not exceeding eight feet in height and 200 square feet must be located within the rear two-thirds of the lot (Sec. 5-7-2.A). Larger detached accessory buildings must meet an 8-foot interior side setback, 10-foot rear setback, and 15-foot maximum height, and on residential lots may not exceed 500 square feet or 25 percent of the main dwelling's floor area, whichever is greater. Check for historic/overlay districts and call Planning at 256-772-5630.
Violations & Fines
Placing an oversized shed without a permit or outside setbacks can result in code-enforcement action and orders to relocate or remove the structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big a shed can I build without a permit?
Where can I place a small shed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Madison
How Madison compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·Compare Madison to another location·View the Alabama accessory structures overview
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Shed & Carport Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Madison County handle shed & carport rules.