Shed Permit Guide · Central Virginia
The 256 Sq. Ft. Rule: Do You Need a Shed Permit in Henrico & Chesterfield County?
Your complete guide to understanding shed permit requirements in Henrico County, Chesterfield County, and Richmond City under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC).
Under 256 sq. ft.
In Henrico and Chesterfield Counties, one-story detached sheds under 256 square feet generally do not require a building permit.
However, zoning setbacks still apply, and structures over this size require permits and, in some cases, specific foundations.
- No permit for most sheds ≤ 256 sq. ft.
- Permits + inspections for sheds > 256 sq. ft.
- Setbacks and zoning rules always apply in every case.
Understanding the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC)
The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code provides the foundational framework for accessory structures like sheds across the Commonwealth.
The most important regulation for shed buyers is the 256 square foot exemption.
The Core Exemption
According to the USBC, one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses are
exempt from building permit requirements provided:
- Floor area does not exceed 256 square feet.
- The structure is one story only.
- Eave height is 10 feet or less.
- Maximum height from finished floor to grade does not exceed 18 inches.
“No building permit required” does not mean “no paperwork required.” The building permit exemption applies only to structural safety inspections.
You must still comply with local zoning ordinances regarding setbacks, lot coverage, and land use.
Henrico County Shed Permit Requirements
Building Permit Exemption
Henrico County adheres to the 256 sq. ft. exemption for building permits. However, the county enforces
strict zoning reviews to prevent encroachment on easements and setbacks.
Setback Requirements by Zoning District
Henrico County has tiered setback requirements based on zoning districts:
| Zoning District | Side Yard Setback | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| R-3 | 12 feet | Standard residential |
| R-0 | 20 feet | Larger lots |
| R-5 | 10 feet | Higher density |
Henrico County Permit Fees (Over 256 Sq. Ft.)
For structures over 256 sq. ft., Henrico County charges permit fees based on the cost of labor and materials:
- $100 for the first $5,000.
- $6 for each additional $1,000.
- Plus a 2% state levy on the permit fee.
Henrico
- 12×20 shed (240 sq. ft.), value $7,000
• Under 256 sq. ft. → No building permit required. - 12×24 shed (288 sq. ft.), value $8,500
• Base fee: $100 (first $5,000)
• Additional: $6 × 4 (for the $3,500 above base) = $24
• Subtotal: $124
• State levy: 2% of $124 ≈ $2.48
• Total permit fee ≈ $126.50.
Chesterfield County Shed Permit Requirements
Building Permit Exemption
Chesterfield County also follows the 256 sq. ft. exemption for one-story detached sheds.
However, the county adds additional requirements for larger structures.
Foundation Requirements for Larger Sheds
This is critical for Chesterfield County buyers:
- Sheds over 400 sq. ft. (if not light-frame construction) require
continuous footings at least 18 inches below finished grade. - Sheds over 600 sq. ft. (if light-frame construction) require
continuous footings as well.
These footing requirements effectively eliminate the simple “gravel pad” installation method for large garages in Chesterfield.
You’ll need to hire a concrete contractor, which significantly increases project costs.
Accessory Structure vs. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
Chesterfield County makes a crucial distinction:
- Accessory Structure: May have kitchenette, bathroom, and living space —
typically permitted by right. - Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU): Includes a full kitchen with stove —
requires a Conditional Use Permit.
Note: Virginia SB 304 (effective July 2025) may change these requirements to allow ADUs by right.
Common Shed Permit Questions
Here are answers to the most common shed permit questions in Henrico County, Chesterfield County, and surrounding areas.
Do I need a permit for a shed in Chesterfield County?
In Chesterfield County, Virginia, one-story detached sheds under 256 square feet do not require a building permit.
However, structures between 257–400 square feet will need a permit and an appropriate permanent foundation.
Always verify setback requirements for your specific lot and zoning district.
Do I need a permit for a shed in Henrico County?
Henrico County exempts one-story detached structures used as tool and storage sheds that do not exceed
256 square feet from building permits, provided they meet all setback requirements
and do not encroach on easements or required yards.
What is the largest shed I can build without a permit in Chesterfield?
The largest shed you can build without a building permit in Chesterfield County is 256 square feet.
Common sizes that fall under this threshold include:
- 12×20 = 240 sq. ft. ✅
- 10×24 = 240 sq. ft. ✅
- 16×16 = 256 sq. ft. ✅
- 12×24 = 288 sq. ft. ❌ (requires permit)
Does adding electricity require a permit?
Yes. Even if your shed is under 256 sq. ft. and doesn’t require a building permit,
adding electrical wiring requires a separate electrical permit.
You’ll need a licensed electrician to pull the permit and perform the work to code.
What about setbacks from my property line?
Setback requirements vary by county and zoning district. Typical requirements include:
- Rear yard: 10+ feet from principal dwelling, and usually 3–5 feet from rear property line.
- Side yard: 5–20 feet depending on zoning (see Henrico setback table above).
- Front yard: Accessory structures are generally not permitted in the front yard.
Always verify specific setbacks with your county’s zoning office before purchasing or placing a shed.
Richmond City Permit Requirements
Richmond City follows the same 256 sq. ft. exemption but adds its own fee structure and historic district limits.
- The 256 sq. ft. exemption for one-story sheds still applies.
- Residential building permit fees:
$63.00 base + $6.07 per thousand dollars of value over $2,000. - Strict lot coverage limits in historic districts (e.g., The Fan, Church Hill).
- Minimum 5 feet setback from property lines (varies by R-1 through R-7 zoning).
We Guide You Through Every Step
As Richmond’s local shed experts, Evergreen Sheds helps you navigate the permit process before you buy,
so your new building is legal, safe, and perfectly placed on your property.
- ✓ Free permit consultation to determine if your project requires permits.
- ✓ Assistance with calculating square footage and setbacks for your lot.
- ✓ Recommendations for licensed electricians and site prep contractors.
- ✓ Documentation support for permit applications.
- ✓ HOA submission assistance (see our HOA Approval Guide).
Not sure if your dream shed needs a permit?
Bring us your address, and we’ll help you find out.