One of the most common questions we get is: "Where exactly can I put my shed?" The answer depends on several factors: your property lines, local setback requirements, easements, utilities, HOA rules, and access for delivery. Every city and county has different rules, and not knowing them upfront can lead to costly mistakes.
This guide covers the main factors that determine where you can legally place a storage building on your property.
Property Lines and Setback Requirements
Every city and county has setback requirements -minimum distances from your property line where structures cannot be placed. Common setbacks are 5, 10, or 15 feet from the front property line, and 5-10 feet from side and rear property lines. Some jurisdictions have different rules for front, side, and rear yards.
The reason for setbacks is to maintain sight lines at intersections, preserve neighborhood appearance, and prevent structures from encroaching on neighboring properties. A structure that violates setback requirements can be forced to be removed or relocated -an expensive problem to have after installation.
Before choosing a location, find out your exact property lines. If you do not have a recent survey, a local surveyor can mark your corners for $200-$500. Then measure from those lines to confirm your chosen location meets setback requirements. It is a small investment that prevents major problems.
Easements: Rights Others Have to Your Land
An easement is a legal right that allows someone else -typically a utility company or government entity -to use portions of your property for specific purposes. Common easements include electrical, gas, water, sewer, and drainage easements.
You should not place a shed in an easement without confirming permission from the entity holding the easement. Even though the land is yours, the easement holder has the right to access it for maintenance and repairs. A building in an easement could be required to be moved if access is needed.
Utility lines: Before digging or building anywhere on your property, call 811 to request free utility location. They will mark buried power, gas, water, and sewer lines so you know where to avoid. Many accidents happen because people did not know where utilities were buried. Locating them takes a few days and costs nothing.
Overhead power lines: Do not place a tall structure directly underneath overhead power lines. Even though lines are insulated, there is always a risk. Most utilities require 10-15 feet of horizontal clearance from power lines. Confirm clearance requirements with your utility company.
Septic systems: Do not place a shed over a septic tank or drain field. Septic systems need access for pumping and repair. A shed blocks that access and damages the system. Typical septic easements extend 5-10 feet in all directions from the tank.
Drainage Easements
Some properties have drainage easements that allow water runoff, stormwater, or creek flow across your land. Placing a shed in a drainage easement can block water flow, create flooding issues, and violate local code. Check your property deed and any survey documents to identify easements before choosing a location.
HOA and Neighborhood Restrictions
If you live in an HOA community, review your CC&Rs (covenants, conditions, and restrictions) before placing a shed. Some HOAs prohibit storage buildings entirely. Others allow them only in backyards, only in certain colors, or only up to a certain size. Many require approval before installation.
Violating HOA restrictions can result in fines and mandatory removal. Check with your HOA management before proceeding. Getting approval upfront is much easier than dealing with enforcement later.
Local Building Permits and Code
Most municipalities require a building permit for storage buildings over a certain size (typically 100-150 square feet). The permit process requires submitting plans, paying a fee, and sometimes having an inspector verify code compliance.
Permit requirements typically cover setbacks, foundation or base requirements, roof pitch, wind and snow load ratings, door placement, and access. Do not skip the permit process -unpermitted structures can create problems when selling your home, filing insurance claims, or if your city conducts code enforcement.
Trees and Vegetation
Avoid placing a shed directly under large trees. Falling branches, continuous shade (which accelerates mildew), and root damage to the foundation are risks. A spot with partial shade is fine; complete shade from large trees is not ideal. Tree roots can also damage gravel pads or concrete over many years.
Delivery Access
Think about how your shed will be delivered. A storage building arrives on a truck and trailer. The delivery crew needs a driveway wide enough for the trailer (typically 8-10 feet), overhead clearance for the trailer and any roof equipment, a level spot to unload, and firm ground that can support the truck's weight.
A narrow side yard with overhead lines, a steeply sloped driveway, or a spot surrounded by trees might not work for delivery. Let us know about your access during the quote process and we will let you know if there are any concerns before you buy.
How Banner Buildings Can Help
When you contact us for a quote, discuss your intended location. If we see potential issues -an easement, poor drainage, tight access, or code concerns -we let you know. Our delivery crew also assesses the site on delivery day and can advise on placement.
However, final responsibility for code compliance and property line verification rests with you. Before ordering, confirm your property lines with a surveyor if unsure, verify setback requirements with your city or county planning office, and check any HOA restrictions. This upfront work prevents expensive problems later.
Have questions about your specific property? Call Banner Buildings at 706-568-0500. Our team in Columbus, GA is happy to discuss your site conditions and help ensure your shed placement meets local code and your property's needs.