Dallas County, TX Permit Requirements: Shed & Outbuilding Permits (2026)

In the City of Dallas, accessory structures (sheds, workshops, storage buildings) over 120 square feet require a building permit. One-story detached structures 120 square feet or less used for storage may be exempt. All sheds must comply with zoning setback requirements — typically 5 feet from rear and side property lines. Sheds cannot be placed in front yards and must be subordinate to the primary structure. The total coverage of accessory structures cannot exceed the allowable lot coverage percentage for the zoning district. Temporary structures used during construction require special permits from the building official for a limited time under Chapter 52. Electrical wiring in any shed requires a separate electrical permit. The City of Dallas follows the International Residential Code with local amendments. Other municipalities within Dallas County have similar but varying requirements — Irving, Garland, Grand Prairie, and others each set their own thresholds. For unincorporated Dallas County, the county's limited building code authority means fewer permitting requirements, though structures must still comply with county standards for health and safety.