Garage & Shed Permit Guide
Do you need a permit for your shed or garage? Size limits, setback requirements, and what you need to know in Ontario.
The Quick Answer
In most Ontario municipalities, sheds under 10 square meters (108 sq ft) are often exempt from building permit requirements. However, you still need to:
- • Meet property line setback requirements
- • Keep total lot coverage within limits
- • Place the shed in the rear yard (not front)
- • Check if your municipality has additional rules
Size Limits & Permit Requirements
Under 10 sq m (108 sq ft)
Permit: Usually NoExample: 8ft x 12ft shed
Most common exempt size. Still must meet setbacks.
10-15 sq m (108-161 sq ft)
Permit: YesExample: 10ft x 12ft shed
Permit required. May have simplified requirements.
Over 15 sq m (161 sq ft)
Permit: YesExample: 12ft x 16ft+ shed
Full permit with complete drawings required.
How to calculate: 10 sq m = 107.6 sq ft. Measure the exterior dimensions of your shed (length × width). A typical 8×10 ft shed is 80 sq ft (7.4 sq m), which is under the limit.
When Do You Need a Permit?
Often exempt from building permit requirements
Must meet setback requirements, may need zoning approval
Building permit required in most municipalities
Building permit and full drawings required
Always requires a building permit
Building permit required, connection to house adds complexity
Usually requires permit even if no walls
Same rules as built-on-site sheds - size is what matters
Most municipalities treat these as structures requiring permits
Setback Requirements by City
Even if a permit isn't required, your shed must meet minimum distances from property lines:
| City | Rear Yard | Side Yard | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toronto | 0.6m (2ft) from rear lot line | 0.6m (2ft) from side lot line | Accessory buildings must be in rear yard only |
| Mississauga | 0.6m (2ft) minimum | 0.6m (2ft) minimum | Check zone-specific requirements |
| Brampton | 0.6m (2ft) minimum | 0.6m (2ft) minimum | Corner lots have special requirements |
| Vaughan | 1.0m (3.3ft) minimum | 0.6m (2ft) minimum | Larger setbacks for larger structures |
These are minimums. Your specific zone may have different requirements. Always verify with your municipality before building, even for small sheds.
If No Permit is Required, You Still Need To:
Detached Garage Requirements
Detached garages always require a building permit, regardless of size. Here's what you'll typically need:
Completed application form with project details
Showing property boundaries, existing structures, proposed garage location, and setbacks
Dimensioned drawings showing layout, door locations, and exterior appearance
Foundation details, wall sections, roof framing
Signed by a qualified designer taking responsibility for code compliance
Tip: If you're building both a garage and a deck/porch, you may be able to combine them into a single permit application to save time and money.
Common Questions
Can I build right on the property line?
No. Even small sheds need to maintain minimum setbacks (typically 0.6m/2ft) from property lines. Building on or over the property line is not permitted.
Does a prefab or kit shed count differently?
No. The permit requirements are based on size and placement, not construction method. A prefab shed follows the same rules as one built on-site.
What if I want electricity in my shed?
You'll need an electrical permit regardless of whether a building permit is required. Electrical work must be done by a licensed electrician and inspected.
Can I convert my garage to living space?
Yes, but you'll need a building permit for the change of use. This involves meeting habitability requirements (ceiling height, egress, insulation, etc.) and may affect parking requirements.
What happens if I build without a required permit?
You may face fines, be required to apply for a permit retroactively (which is more expensive), or in worst cases, be ordered to demolish the structure. It can also cause issues when selling your property.
Official Resources
Related Resources
Need a Permit for Your Garage?
If your project requires a permit, our pre-check tool helps ensure your application is complete before you submit.
Run Free Pre-CheckThis guide is for informational purposes only and reflects typical Ontario requirements as of December 2025. Requirements vary by municipality. Always verify with your local building department before starting construction.