Yakima, WA Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)
Shed permit rules in Yakima, WA, 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
- Residential exemption
- Up to 200 sq ft
- Other occupancies
- Lower 120 sq ft cap
- Covers
- One-story, non-habitable structures
- Citation
- YMC § 11.22.R105.2
Summary
Yakima lets homeowners build a detached storage shed up to 200 square feet without a building permit under its residential code; larger sheds and other occupancy types need one.
One-story detached non-habitable accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, play houses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet.
2. Fences not over 7 feet (2134 mm) high.
3. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the retained material, unless supporting a surcharge.
4. Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons (18,920 L) and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.
5. Sidewalks and driveways.
6. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
7. Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 24 inches (610 mm) deep.
8. Swings and other playground equipment.
9. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall that do not project more than 54 inches (1372 mm) from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.
10. Decks not exceeding 200 square feet (18.58 m2) in area, that are not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade at any point, are not attached to a dwelling and do not serve the main exit door required by Section R311.4. The remainder of Section 105.2 of the Washington State Building Code is adopted by reference. (Ord. 2016-011 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2016; Ord. 2021-001 § 4, 2021) § 11.22.R301.2(1). Amendment to Table R301.2(1).
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4980636; v1 updated 2026-08-03; through 08-03-2026).
Full Breakdown
Yakima's residential code amendments exempt a one-story, non-habitable detached accessory structure used as a tool or storage shed, playhouse, or similar use from a building permit only if its floor area is 200 square feet or less. A companion amendment to the general building code sets a lower 120-square-foot cap for the same kind of accessory structure on other occupancy types. Any shed built larger than the applicable threshold needs a building permit from the code administration division before construction.
Violations & Fines
Building an oversized shed without a permit is a misdemeanor under YMC § 11.01.010, up to a $250 fine, 90 days in jail, or both, with each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a 10x12 storage shed without a permit?
What if my shed will be bigger than 200 square feet?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Yakima
How Yakima compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·Compare Yakima to another location·View the Washington accessory structures overview
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