Miami, FL Permit Requirements: Shed & Outbuilding Permits (2026)

Miami-Dade County requires building permits for sheds and accessory structures under the South Florida Building Code. The county's position in the highest wind-speed design zone in the continental United States (185 mph) means all structures — including small sheds — must be designed to withstand hurricane-force winds. Pre-fabricated metal or plastic sheds that are not properly anchored can become deadly projectiles in hurricanes. Small utility sheds may qualify for a simplified permit process or exemption if they meet specific size and use criteria defined by the Building Department. Sheds must comply with zoning setback requirements and cannot be in front yards. Electrical wiring in any shed requires a separate electrical permit. The permit application is submitted through the county's online permitting system at miamidade.gov/permits. Plan review timelines range from 24 hours for simple projects to 10 business days for more complex ones. Standardized forms became effective August 5, 2024, for projects in unincorporated Miami-Dade County. The county revised its fee schedule effective October 1, 2025.