San Antonio does not require a building permit for sheds and accessory buildings 200 square feet or less without utilities. Sheds over 200 square feet require a Residential Improvements permit. All sheds must comply with UDC setback requirements.
San Antonio's Development Services Department exempts detached storage sheds and accessory buildings of 200 square feet or less from building permit requirements, provided they do not have electrical, plumbing, or gas utilities. Sheds over 200 square feet require a Residential Improvements Permit, with fees starting at $150 for structures 0-500 square feet. All sheds, regardless of size, must comply with Unified Development Code (UDC) setback requirements—typically 5 feet from side and rear property lines in residential zones. Sheds cannot be placed in front yard setback areas. Sheds must not exceed the maximum height allowed for accessory structures in the zoning district. Prefabricated sheds from retailers still must comply with placement requirements. If the shed will have electrical service, a separate electrical permit is required. Permits can be applied for at the DSD office at 1901 S. Alamo St. or through the Develop SA online portal.
Building a shed over 200 sq ft without a permit can result in Code Enforcement citations, fines, and possible order to remove. Sheds violating setback requirements may require relocation.
San Antonio, TX
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San Antonio, TX
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San Antonio, TX
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San Antonio, TX
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San Antonio, TX
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San Antonio, TX
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See how San Antonio's shed & outbuilding permits rules stack up against other locations.
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