Shed permit rules in New Bedford, MA — also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations — set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
In New Bedford, one-story detached accessory structures under 200 sq ft (tool/storage sheds, playhouses) are generally exempt from building permit requirements. Larger structures require permits at $0.15 per sq ft with a $50 minimum. Structures must comply with zoning setbacks.
New Bedford follows the statewide MA Building Code (780 CMR) which may exempt small accessory structures under 100 to 200 square feet from building permits. Zoning setbacks still apply. Structures over the threshold require building permits. All sheds must comply with zoning setbacks (typically 3 to 5 feet from property lines). Electrical connections require permits. Sheds cannot be used as living quarters. The building code is uniform statewide.
Unpermitted structure: retroactive permit with penalty. Setback violation: modification or removal. Habitation: immediate correction.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Bristol County.
See how other cities in Bristol County handle shed rules.
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