A building permit is required for new garages and most accessory structures, as well as additions or structural alterations to existing structures.
Small accessory structures, such as sheds and playhouses, that are 100 square feet or less in area and no more than 12 feet in height generally do not require a building permit.
Even when a building permit is not required, all structures must comply with applicable zoning requirements, including location and setback requirements.
Note: A structure built in a floodplain requires a floodplain permit even if a building permit is not required.
How to Apply
Apply for a permit through our self-service portal. You can upload required documents, track the status of your application, and make payments online.
For most garage and accessory structure applications, you will need:
- Construction plans
- A recent land survey showing the proposed location of the structure, including setbacks.
- Photos of the front of the home and the area where the work is proposed
Additional information or documents may be requested depending on the type and scope of your project.
Fees
Permit fees vary depending on the type and scope of work. Fees may be based on project value, square footage, or a flat fee.
Use the Self Service Portal Fee Estimator to estimate the cost of your permit. Final fees are determined during the application and review process.
What needs to be included in the construction plans?
Construction plans should clearly show how the garage or accessory structure will be built. At a minimum, plans should include:
- A cross section showing the foundation or base, exterior grade, wall construction, roof construction, materials, and applicable spans
- Elevations of all four sides showing the overall appearance of the structure
- The location and size of doors and windows
- Roof configuration and exterior finish materials
- Complete and accurate dimensions
- Footing and foundation details for attached garages, when applicable
Plans must be drawn to a scale of at least ¼ inch per foot.
Do I need a land survey?
A land survey helps verify property lines and ensures the proposed structure meets applicable zoning requirements, including required setbacks.
Check your property records first, as you may have received a survey when you purchased your home. If you do not have one, or if the existing survey does not accurately reflect current conditions, you may need to obtain an updated survey from a registered land surveyor.
What are the design requirements for a garage or accessory structure?
Garages and accessory structures should be designed to complement the existing home. Depending on the design and scope of the project, the proposal may be reviewed by staff or require additional design review.
For staff approval, the proposed structure should generally include:
- Exterior materials that match or complement the home
- A roof pitch and design that is consistent with the home
- Roofing materials and colors that match or complement the home
- Overhangs that are consistent with the home
- Elevations that clearly show the proposed design and exterior appearance
Projects that do not meet these guidelines may require additional review.
How long does it take to get the permit?
Most complete applications that do not require Design Review are reviewed within approximately one week.
Review times may vary depending on the scope of the project and whether additional information or approvals are required. Submitting a complete application with all required plans and documents will help avoid delays.
You will be notified when your permit has been approved and is ready to be issued.
Where can I locate a garage or accessory structure?
Garages and accessory structures must meet applicable setback and lot coverage requirements.
Detached garages, sheds, and other accessory structures generally must be at least 18 inches from side and rear property lines and at least 5 feet from an alley. Eaves may extend into the required setback but cannot extend across a property line. Accessory structures are not permitted in the front yard.
Attached garages must meet the setback and lot coverage requirements that apply to the principal building.
Requirements can vary by property. Contact the Planning Division at (414) 479-8957 with questions about your specific property before submitting your application.
Are there size or other restrictions?
Yes. Garages and accessory structures must meet applicable lot coverage, height, and construction requirements.
Generally:
- Total building coverage cannot exceed 37% of the lot area.
- Detached garages, sheds, and other accessory structures cannot exceed 12% of the lot area.
- Storage sheds cannot exceed 12 feet in height.
- Detached garages are generally limited to 16 feet in height. Heights between 16 and 20 feet may be permitted when the roof style and pitch are consistent with the home and required documentation is provided.
- Attached garages require frost-protected footings and required fire separation.
Electrical work: If electrical service or wiring is being installed in the garage, a separate electrical permit is required and the work must be completed by a licensed electrical contractor.
Requirements may vary depending on the property and proposed project.
Do I need a permit for a dumpster?
A permit is only required when a dumpster will be placed within the public right-of-way, such as a street or public sidewalk.
For dumpsters located in the public right-of-way, contact Engineering Services at (414) 479-8927 for permit requirements.