Shed permit rules in Waltham, MA — also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations — set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Sheds in Waltham under 200 square feet and 15 feet tall typically require no building permit but must meet zoning setbacks. Larger sheds need a building permit from the Building Department.
Under the Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR) and Waltham zoning, detached accessory sheds meeting all of these conditions are exempt from a building permit: floor area 200 square feet or less, one story, no plumbing or permanent electrical service, and not used for human habitation. All sheds regardless of size must comply with Waltham zoning setbacks, typically 5-10 feet from side and rear property lines in residential districts, and cannot be placed in front yard setbacks. Sheds over 200 sq ft require a building permit from the Waltham Building Department (approximately 50-100 dollars plus plan review). Total accessory structure coverage is also limited by zoning (typically 25-30 percent of rear yard). Sheds within 100 feet of wetlands, the Charles River, or Beaver Brook require Conservation Commission approval. HOA covenants, where applicable, may impose additional restrictions.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Middlesex County.
See how other cities in Middlesex County handle shed rules.
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