Shed permit rules in Tacoma, WA — also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations — set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Tacoma allows sheds and accessory structures on residential property. Small structures under 200 square feet generally do not require a building permit. Sheds must meet setback requirements and cannot be used for habitation.
Accessory structures under 200 square feet and one story typically do not require a building permit in Tacoma. Sheds must comply with zoning setback requirements. They cannot be used for habitation or as rental units (that would be an ADU requiring a permit). Larger structures need permits and full zoning compliance. Stormwater management may apply for impervious surfaces added.
Sheds violating setbacks or exceeding size limits without permits face code enforcement notices.
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma allows residential lawn ornaments and yard art without permits provided they do not exceed the 15-foot accessory-structure height limit in TMC 13.06 a...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma does not regulate residential inflatable holiday decorations by size or type. The Noise Code (TMC 8.122) applies to continuously running blower motors...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma has no ordinance restricting when residents may put up or take down holiday lights. The general Noise Ordinance at TMC 8.122 applies to any amplified ...
Tacoma, WA
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Tacoma require building permits from Planning and Development Services (PDS) when they include new electrical, plumbing, gas pip...
Tacoma, WA
Backyard wood and pellet smokers in Tacoma single-family yards are permitted but subject to Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) Regulation I, Section 9.11, ...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma adopts the International Fire Code through TMC Title 3 (Fire Prevention) as Tacoma Fire Code. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in this county.
See how other cities in this county handle shed rules.
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