Shed Rules: Medfield vs Wellesley
How do shed rules rules compare between Medfield, MA and Wellesley, MA?
Medfield has fewer restrictions than Wellesley.
Medfield, MA
Norfolk County
Shed rules in Norfolk County are set by individual municipalities through local zoning bylaws. Norfolk County has no county-level shed ordinance. Permit requirements, setbacks, and size limits vary by town.
View full Medfield rules →Wellesley, MA
Norfolk County
Wellesley's Building Department exempts one-story sheds/accessory buildings of 100 square feet or less from a building permit, but they must still comply with Zoning Bylaw Section 19(B). Sheds cannot be placed within the first 30 feet of a lot abutting a roadway; side and rear yard setbacks do not apply. Anything over 100 sq ft needs a permit and a certified plot plan.
View full Wellesley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Medfield | Wellesley |
|---|---|---|
| County Rule? | None — municipal zoning jurisdiction | - |
| Permit Trigger | Often required above 100–200 sq ft (varies by town) | Over 100 sq ft |
| Typical Setback | 5–10 ft from property lines (varies by town) | - |
| Where to Check | Town zoning bylaw and building department | - |
| Road-Facing Setback | - | 30 ft minimum |
| Side/Rear Setback (≤100 sq ft) | - | None required |
| Tree Bylaw | - | Sec. 16E may apply |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Medfield FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in Norfolk County?
Shed rules in Norfolk County are set by individual municipalities through local zoning bylaws. Norfolk County has no county-level shed ordinance. Permit requirements, setbacks, and size limits vary by town.
How big can a shed be without a permit in Norfolk County?
County Rule?: None — municipal zoning jurisdiction. Permit Trigger: Often required above 100–200 sq ft (varies by town). Typical Setback: 5–10 ft from property lines (varies by town). Where to Check: Town zoning bylaw and building department.
Wellesley FAQ
Do I need a permit for a small shed in Wellesley?
No, for one-story sheds 100 square feet or less. You still must comply with Zoning Bylaw Section 19(B) — the shed cannot be within 30 feet of any roadway-abutting lot line. Side/rear yard setbacks do not apply to under-100 sq ft sheds.
How big can my shed be without a permit in Wellesley?
Up to 100 square feet and one story. Anything larger requires a building permit and a certified plot plan submitted to the Wellesley Building Department.
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