Ramsey County, MN Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)
Shed permit rules in Ramsey County, MN, 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
- County rule?
- No: city sets shed rules
- St. Paul max height
- 15 ft flat/shed, 18 ft other
- St. Paul setback
- 3 ft from interior lot lines
- St. Paul placement
- Rear yard only
- St. Paul total area
- 1,200 sq ft, up to 3 buildings
Summary
Ramsey County has no shed ordinance. Detached accessory buildings are municipal zoning under Minn. Stat. 462.357. In St. Paul, detached sheds max at 15 ft (flat/shed roof) or 18 ft, must sit in the rear yard 3 ft from lot lines, capped at 1,200 sq ft total.
Detached accessory building maximum height: 15' for a flat or shed roof style or 18' for all other roof styles; maximum 1,200 square feet total across up to 3 structures on lots with 1-4 principal units; minimum 3-foot setback from interior lot lines.
Full Breakdown
Sheds and detached accessory buildings are regulated by each Minnesota city, not by Ramsey County, under the Ch. 462 zoning enabling statute. St. Paul (Sec. 63.501) is representative: a detached accessory building must be in the rear yard, set back at least 3 feet from interior lot lines, and capped at 15 feet for a flat or shed roof (18 feet for other roof styles). On lots with one to four principal units, up to three accessory structures totaling no more than 1,200 square feet are allowed. Building-permit thresholds and setbacks differ in Roseville, Maplewood and other suburbs, so check your city.
Violations & Fines
Cities enforce via zoning/building code. A shed exceeding size or height limits, or too close to a lot line, may require a variance, be ordered relocated or removed, and can draw administrative fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a shed in Ramsey County?
How big can a shed be in St. Paul?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Ramsey County
How Ramsey County compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·Compare Ramsey County to another location·View the Minnesota accessory structures overview
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