Shed Rules: Beaverton vs Hillsboro
How do shed rules rules compare between Beaverton, OR and Hillsboro, OR?
Hillsboro has fewer restrictions than Beaverton.
Beaverton, OR
Washington County
Sheds and detached accessory structures in Beaverton are regulated by the Beaverton Development Code Chapter 60 (Section 60.50, Residential Accessory Structures) and the Oregon Residential Specialty Code adopted under BC Chapter 8.02. One-story detached accessory structures of 200 square feet or less are generally exempt from a building permit under the Oregon Residential Specialty Code, but they must still comply with the setbacks of the underlying residential zone (BDC Chapter 20). Sheds cannot be used as habitable dwelling units unless converted into an ADU with full permitting.
View full Beaverton rules →Hillsboro, OR
Washington County
Small sheds under 200 square feet generally do not need permits in Hillsboro. Larger structures require permits and must meet setbacks.
View full Hillsboro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Beaverton | Hillsboro |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Exemption | 1-story sheds <=200 sq ft (Oregon Residential Specialty Code) | - |
| Setbacks | Per underlying residential zone (BDC Chapter 20) | Must comply |
| Code | BDC Section 60.50; Beaverton Code Chapter 8.02 | - |
| Lot Coverage | Counts toward zone's maximum (typically 40-50%) | - |
| Habitation | Not allowed unless converted to permitted ADU | - |
| No Permit | - | Under 200 sq ft |
| Permit Required | - | 200+ sq ft |
| Easements | - | Cannot build in |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Beaverton FAQ
Do I need a permit for a small shed in Beaverton?
Under the Oregon Residential Specialty Code adopted by Beaverton Code Chapter 8.02, single-story detached accessory structures of 200 square feet or less generally do not require a building permit. Zoning still applies: under Beaverton Development Code Section 60.50, the shed must meet the side and rear yard setbacks of your underlying residential zone and cannot encroach on easements or exceed lot-coverage maximums.
Can I live in a shed in Beaverton?
No. A shed cannot be used as a dwelling unit. To create a legal habitable space, the structure must be permitted and built as an Accessory Dwelling Unit under Beaverton Development Code Section 60.50 (consistent with ORS 197.312), with full building, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical permits and a separate exterior entrance.
Hillsboro FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in Hillsboro?
Under 200 square feet, generally no. Larger structures require permits.
How close to the property line can a shed be in Hillsboro?
Must comply with zoning setback requirements.
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