Shed Rules: Greenfield vs Milwaukee
How do shed rules rules compare between Greenfield, WI and Milwaukee, WI?
Greenfield and Milwaukee have similar restriction levels.
Greenfield, WI
Milwaukee County
Sheds in Greenfield are 'accessory buildings (except garages)' under the Zoning Code (Chapter 21) and the Inspection Services Accessory Structure Permits handout. They must sit at least 2 feet from any side or rear lot line and at least 10 feet from any principal structure, may never be placed in the front yard, and the typical maximum height is 15 feet. A residential lot may have up to two accessory buildings (except garages) of no more than 250 square feet each without a concrete slab.
View full Greenfield rules →Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee County
Sheds and accessory structures in Milwaukee follow Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code (SPS 320–325) and MCO Chapter 295. Permits typically required for structures over 144–200 sq ft.
View full Milwaukee rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Greenfield | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Side/Rear Setback | 2 ft (non-garage) | - |
| Distance From House | 10 ft | - |
| Front Yard | Not allowed | - |
| No-Slab Threshold | 250 sq ft or less | - |
| Max Per Lot | 2 accessory buildings | - |
| Rear-Yard Coverage | 40% max | - |
| Permit Threshold | - | Generally 144–200 sq ft |
| State Code | - | WI SPS 320–325 |
| Setbacks | - | Per MCO Chapter 295, Table 295-505-3 |
| Contact | - | DNS Permits Division |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Greenfield FAQ
Do I need a permit for a small shed in Greenfield?
Yes. Greenfield requires a building permit for any accessory structure, regardless of size. The Inspection Services handout requires two copies of an as-built survey showing the shed's location and two copies of construction plans. Sheds 250 square feet or smaller are exempt from a concrete-slab foundation but must use decay-resistant wood flooring and be securely anchored. A separate electrical permit is required for any wiring.
How close to my fence can my Greenfield shed sit?
A non-garage accessory building such as a shed must be at least 2 feet from any side or rear lot line under the Greenfield Accessory Structure Permits handout. It must also be at least 10 feet from your house and may never be placed in the front yard. If your property abuts an alley, no part of the shed may be within 5 feet of the alley right-of-way line. Total accessory structures may not occupy more than 40% of the available rear yard.
Milwaukee FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in Milwaukee?
Sheds and accessory structures in Milwaukee follow Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code (SPS 320–325) and MCO Chapter 295. Permits typically required for structures over 144–200 sq ft.
How big can a shed be without a permit in Milwaukee?
Permit Threshold: Generally 144–200 sq ft. State Code: WI SPS 320–325. Setbacks: Per MCO Chapter 295, Table 295-505-3. Contact: DNS Permits Division.
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