Nelson Accessory Structures: Shed Rules Rules (2026)

Clark County Department of Building and Fire Prevention adopts the 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) Section R105.2 exemption for accessory structures: one-story detached accessory structures used as tool or storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses may be built without a building permit if they are under 200 square feet of floor area and under 12 feet tall (wall top plate) and do not contain plumbing or electrical service or serve as habitable space. Even when exempt from a building permit, sheds must comply with Title 30 Chapter 30.56 zoning rules: typical rear and side setbacks are 5 feet for detached accessory structures in R-1, with 3-foot minimums in some smaller lot zones. Sheds cannot be placed in the front yard setback. Combined accessory structure footprint cannot exceed 30 percent of the rear yard on most residential lots. Larger sheds (over 200 sq ft), any shed with electrical wiring or water service, any shed with a solid roof tied into a dwelling, and sheds in the WUI (Mount Charleston area) all require a permit and inspections. HOAs in Summerlin, Anthem, Mountains Edge, and similar communities typically require architectural review for any visible shed regardless of county permit status. Pre-manufactured metal sheds still count toward setback and footprint rules.