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SetbackIQ

Sheds and garages in Arlington County, VA

Sheds up to 256 sq ft need no building permit. Accessory building height, size and setbacks come from ACZO § 3.2.6.A.2.

A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Arlington County before you build.

The details

  • In an RPA, staff can approve a shed of 100 sq ft or less built on existing lawn without tree removal.High confidence

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SetbackIQ reads the zoning, flood zone, historic district, and environmental maps for your lot. Then it applies these rules.

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Common questions

Where can a shed or garage go in Arlington County?
Sheds up to 256 sq ft need no building permit. Accessory building height, size and setbacks come from ACZO § 3.2.6.A.2.

Sources

  1. Arlington County, Resource Protection Area (RPA) and the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Ordinance. Checked 2026-10-21
    [RPA review is required for] new or replaced fences and retaining walls; new paved surfaces, including gravel; decks, sheds, and pergolas; removing trees 3 inches or more in diameter... [A CBORC exception is required for] increasing impervious cover in the …

Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.