Where am I permitted to place a shed or shop (accessory structure) on my property?

What Is an Accessory Structure? An accessory structure is a structure that is smaller than and separate from your house. It is used for storage or other non-business or living (non-habitable) purposes. Some examples are:

Sheds
Greenhouses
Detached Garage
Detached unenclosed covered patio
Detached deck with a roof

Where Can You Put the Building?

Small buildings (less than 200 square feet and under 10 feet tall) don’t need to meet distance rules (setbacks) from your property lines when behind the furthest part of your house from the street (back building line) unless stated otherwise.
Big buildings (more than 200 square feet or taller than 10 feet) must follow setback rules about how far they have to be from your property lines.
If you put a building within 6 feet of your house, it must follow fire safety rules.

Specific Rules for Some Structures:

Detached or attached covered patios and decks: These can be placed in your backyard but must be at least 10 feet away from the rear property line. The patio or deck roof can extend an extra 2 feet into this area.
Detached or attached uncovered decks: These can be in the backyard or side yard, but they must be at least 5 feet away from property lines.
Play Structures: These can go in the backyard or side yard, but if they are over 6 feet tall, they need to be at least 5 feet away from property lines.

Before You Build: Check with your local building division (503) 434-7314 and planning division (503-434-7311) to make sure your building is allowed. They’ll also help you make sure it follows all the rules.

If You Need a Permit: If you do need a permit, you will need to apply using our ePermitting software. Please visit here to create an account and provide the following information

Microsite:

Community Development

Category:

planning