Shed Rules: Austin vs Pflugerville
How do shed rules rules compare between Austin, TX and Pflugerville, TX?
Austin and Pflugerville have similar restriction levels.
Austin, TX
Travis County
One-story detached residential sheds 200 sq ft or smaller and 15 ft or shorter in height are exempt from a building permit, provided they have no plumbing, are not a dwelling, and are not in a flood hazard area.
View full Austin rules →Pflugerville, TX
Travis County
Unincorporated Travis County has no shed permit requirement (no zoning authority). Austin requires permits for sheds over 200 sq ft under 2021 IRC R105.2. Sheds under 200 sq ft are permit-exempt but must meet setbacks. HOAs commonly require design review for sheds regardless of size.
View full Pflugerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Austin | Pflugerville |
|---|---|---|
| Permit-Exempt Size | 200 sq ft or less | - |
| Max Height | 15 feet | - |
| Floodplain | Permit required | - |
| Plumbing | Not allowed in exempt shed | - |
| Trade Permits | Required if electrical/mechanical added | - |
| County | - | No permit required |
| Austin Exempt | - | Under 200 sq ft |
| Austin Setback | - | 5 ft side/rear |
| Septic | - | 10 ft from drain lines |
| HOA | - | ARC approval common |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Austin FAQ
Do I need a permit to build a shed in Austin?
Not for a one-story detached shed 200 sq ft or smaller and 15 ft or shorter, with no plumbing and not in a flood hazard area. Otherwise yes.
Can I put a shed in my Austin floodplain?
A permit is required for any accessory structure in a designated flood hazard area, regardless of its size.
Pflugerville FAQ
Do I need a permit for a backyard shed in Travis County?
Not in unincorporated areas. Austin requires permits for sheds over 200 sq ft. Most HOAs require Architectural Review Committee approval.
How close to my septic can I put a shed?
Per TCEQ 30 TAC 285, maintain at least 10 feet from any drain field lines to avoid system damage.
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