Do you need a permit for a shed in Arlington County, VA?
It depends on size and placement.
Sheds up to 256 sq ft need no building permit.
A small accessory building only needs 1 ft from the side and rear lot lines, measured to the eave.
It must stay 8 ft from the house.
Rules last checked by a person on October 20, 2026. Guidance only; confirm with Arlington County before you build.
Check your exact lot
Setbacks depend on your zoning district, and a flood zone can change the permit answer. Enter your address to see both.
Permits a shed can need in Arlington County
| Permit | When it applies |
|---|---|
| Building permit | Virginia's building code exempts only one-story detached sheds up to 256 sq ft. |
| Floodplain development permit | In a FEMA special flood hazard area, development needs a floodplain permit, and the building official may require a building permit even for an exempt shed. |
| Electrical permit | Wiring a shed needs an electrical permit even when the shed is exempt.Confidence: medium |
R-5 and R-6 one-family dwelling districts
| Side setback | 1 ft to the eave edge (interior lots) |
|---|---|
| Rear setback | 1 ft to the eave edge (10 ft on corner lots) |
| From the house | 8 ft from any wall of the house |
| Height and footprint | Under 1 1/2 stories or 25 ft, and under 560 sq ft, to use the 1 ft setbacks |
R-8, R-10 and R-20 one-family dwelling districts
| Side setback | 1 ft to the eave edge (interior lots) |
|---|---|
| Rear setback | 1 ft to the eave edge (10 ft on corner lots) |
| Height and footprint | Under 1 1/2 stories or 25 ft, and under 650 sq ft, to use the 1 ft setbacks |
All rules for R-8, R-10 and R-20 one-family dwelling districts
Local details
- Call 811 at least a few days before you dig footings or post holes. Utility locating is free.
- HOA covenants and deed restrictions can be stricter than city rules. Check yours before you build.
How to apply
Questions people ask
- When does a shed need a building permit in Arlington County?
- Virginia's building code exempts only one-story detached sheds up to 256 sq ft. One-story detached sheds up to 256 sq ft need no building permit in Arlington (Virginia USBC 108.2).
- How far from the property line can a shed go in Arlington County?
- Side setback: 1 ft to the eave edge (interior lots). Setbacks vary by zoning district; check your exact lot for the district that applies.
- Where do I apply for a shed permit in Arlington County?
- Apply through Arlington Permits portal, or call 703-228-3800.
Sources
- Virginia USBC, 13VAC5-63-80 Section 108.2, Exemptions from application for permit. Checked 2026-10-20.
2. One story detached structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses, provided the building area does not exceed 256 square feet... 5. Fences of any height unless required for pedestrian safety as provided for by Section 3306 or used…
- 44 CFR 59.1, definition of development (NFIP). Checked 2026-10-19.
Development means any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures...
- 44 CFR 60.3, floodplain management criteria. Checked 2026-10-19.
Require permits for all proposed construction or other development in the community...