Shed Rules: Milwaukee vs West Allis
How do shed rules rules compare between Milwaukee, WI and West Allis, WI?
Milwaukee and West Allis have similar restriction levels.
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 →West Allis, WI
Milwaukee County
Sheds in West Allis are 'Other Accessory Buildings' under Section 19.42 of the West Allis Zoning Code. They are limited to 300 square feet, 15 feet in height, must sit at least 3 feet from any side or rear lot line (5 feet if the rear abuts an alley), at least 10 feet from the principal dwelling, and at least 60 feet from the front lot line.
View full West Allis rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Milwaukee | West Allis |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Code Section | - | Sec. 19.42 |
| Max Size (Shed) | - | 300 sq ft |
| Max Height | - | 15 feet |
| Side / Rear Setback | - | 3 feet |
| Distance From House | - | 10 feet |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
West Allis FAQ
How big can my shed be in West Allis?
Under Section 19.42 of the West Allis Zoning Code, an 'Other Accessory Building' (shed) is limited to a maximum of 300 square feet and a maximum height of 15 feet. Anything larger is treated as a detached garage (up to 1,000 sq ft and 18 feet tall) or an accessory dwelling unit (up to 800 sq ft and 20 feet tall) and must follow those rules instead.
How close to my fence or neighbor can my West Allis shed sit?
Section 19.42 requires a shed to sit at least 3 feet from any side lot line and at least 3 feet from the rear lot line, increased to 5 feet if your rear lot line abuts an alley. The shed must also be at least 10 feet from your principal dwelling and at least 60 feet from the front lot line, which means a shed cannot be placed in the front yard.
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