Sheds and Accessory Structures
Austin, TX · City rule · Reviewed 2026-09-28
A detached one-story accessory structure may be exempt from a building permit when it is no more than 200 square feet, no more than 15 feet high, outside a flood hazard area, and contains no plumbing, but it still must follow other rules.
Official source: Work Exempt from Building PermitsSource checked 2026-09-28
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More about this rule
The rule in plain language
Austin's exemption is narrow. The structure still has to comply with zoning, setbacks, impervious-cover limits, easements, drainage, tree protections, and any separate electrical or other trade-permit rules.
Common follow-up questions
What should I do first?
Check the property's zoning, setbacks, easements, floodplain status, and proposed footprint before deciding the project is exempt.
What can change the answer?
Size, height, plumbing, location in a flood hazard area, utilities, and property-specific restrictions can change the answer.
What to keep in mind
Measure the full footprint and height and confirm the location before buying or building. A permit exemption is not permission to place a shed anywhere on the lot.
Civic education, not legal advice. Rules can change.
