Adding a shed to your property is a great way to upgrade its aesthetics and even bump up your home value a little.
There are a million and one reasons why a homeowner might need to build a shed. It could be for extra storage, extra room, or just because they want to spice up the look of their home.
However, shed permits are needed for shed buildings, but the good news is that requirements vary in all states, and you might not even need to go through much stress getting one.
Depending on the type and size of shed you intend to build on your land, you might need to get special permits or be at risk of the government taking down your shed.
So, let's find out whether you need additional permits to build a shed in Hartford, and if yes, how you can go about it.
Keep reading!
What is a Shed Building Permit?
A shed permit is more like a construction permit because it gives you the right to build a shed. Some homeowners have to apply for shed permits depending on the requirements of their zones.
A shed building permit allows you to do construction work on your property. Even with the necessary permissions, you must comply with local codes to ensure you don't go against any safety measures.
Do You Need a Building Permit for a Shed in Connecticut?
You need a shed permit if you intend to build any type of shed or accessory structure in Connecticut.
There will also be zoning requirements to comply with; for example, how many square feet in size your shed will be, depending on the district in which you live.
The local Building Department will also want to know where your shed will be located. If it will be in proximity to septic systems and other utility structures. All of these things must be considered to comply with zoning codes; otherwise, your shed might be at risk of being demolished.
The requirements for building permits involve you sending a sketch that clearly shows the intended location of your shed.
Do I Need a Permit for a Shed in Hartford?
Before building a high-quality shed in Hartford, you'll need a permit. Depending on the type of shed, you might also need to apply for a foundation permit.
In Hartford, you need a building permit regardless of whether you are dealing with commercial properties or residential properties.
There are other instances where you'll need a permit. Do you intend to install electrical wiring in your shed? Then you'll need to apply for special permits.
If you are unsure of what permit to apply for, you can call 860-379-8830 before proceeding to ensure you are on the right path. It's always better to contact a local building official and be enlightened on what you need to do than to act without finding out the necessary requirements first.
How to Get a Shed Permit in Hartford, Connecticut?
As a homeowner doing the building of your shed alone, you may get overwhelmed by the concept of starting a permit application. But there's really nothing to worry about.
We'll take you through how you can start your permit application online.
1. Submit your zoning application
First, check the review service page to see the planning and zoning requirements for your intended shed because sometimes you might not even need a permit.
You should also check if your property is within a historic district. If it is, you might be subjected to a review.
2. Collect the necessary documents
There are specific documents you need to submit that give a clear insight into the ground plot plan, floor plan, elevation plan, and even square footage of the planned shed. All these are necessary for your permit process because there are different applicable codes and size limitations when building storage sheds and aluminum sheds.
These are some of the documents you need to collect include:
Drawings that show the size of the shed to be sure it's in line with size requirements
Details of the contractor's license
Technical specifications
Two sets of plans
You might need to submit additional documents on request.
3. Submit your online application
Before submitting your application to the Building Division Office, you'll need to create a profile. Stricter codes may apply based on the type of shed construction project you are planning, so take note.
Once you have successfully created your profile, proceed to submit your application. The major advantage of this online permitting is that you can access the permit portal from the comfort of your home.
4. Make payment
The last step in getting your building permit card is to pay your permit fees. One of the easiest ways of making the payment is through the self-service permitting option, and note that you'll be charged a 2.99% service fee if you use card transactions.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Shed Permit in Hartford, Connecticut?
After a property owner has sent in a request for building permits, the Building Division will review the building permit applications and respond in less than 30 days.
Typically, building permits can take up to 2 weeks before being issued.
How Much Does It Cost?
The price you pay for your building permit depends on the size and sometimes the city's requirements.
Generally, you are expected to pay $10 for every $1,000 of constructed value.
Can You Build a Shed Without Planning Permission?
Depending on the size of your shed, it can be considered an outbuilding on your private property. As such, you do not need planning permission. However, there are still some laws to adhere to.
How Tall Can a Shed be Without a Permit in Connecticut?
The maximum height of a general residential shed is under 10 feet. You'll need a building permit if your shed is between 10 and 15 feet in height. Your shed must never exceed 15 feet in height.
In addition, you'll need to follow the rear yard setbacks for where your shed is situated. The setbacks must be 50 feet to the rear property line, 60 feet away from the street, and 25 feet to each side property line.
You might also want to put a reasonable distance between the principal structure - about 10 feet.
How Big of a Shed Can You Build Without a Permission?
If your shed is 200 square feet to 300 square feet, you'll need a zoning and building permit, and sometimes the original permit fees might change.
If you plan on doing just repairs to structures, you do not need planning permission.
What Happens if You Build a Shed Without a Permit in Connecticut?
Proceeding to build a shed that exceeds the stated requirements of not needing a permit will result in penalties, such as:
Fines
Removal and demolition of the shed
A lien could be placed on your property
It might reduce the value of your property
It may take away your option of insuring your property
Conclusion
Before requesting a building permit, you must verify if your property is in a historic district.
With Urban Sheds Builders in Hartford, you won't need to worry because we ensure all the necessary original documents are available. Your shed will be built by one of our professional and experienced contractors.
Our experts tailor your shed to meet your location-specific requirements.
Book a consultation online with one of our shed experts now.
FAQs
1. How close to the property line can I build a shed in Connecticut?
Dimensional setback requirements state that your shed must be 25 feet to each side property line.
2. Does a shed increase property tax in Connecticut?
In most instances, building a shed won't add significant value to your home. So it likely won't increase property tax.