General contractors
Do I need a permit to build a shed or detached garage in Madison?
A common question, answered by the MadisonWI.com editors · November 13, 2026
1 answer
From MadisonWI.com
A detached garage always needs a permit in the City of Madison. For a shed, you need one if it is over 150 square feet, heated, or less than 10 feet from a dwelling on the property. A smaller, unheated shed at least 10 feet from the house doesn't need a building permit, but it still has to meet size and placement rules. Those include a 15-foot height limit, at least 3 feet from other structures and from side and rear lot lines, and a 1,000-square-foot cap on all accessory buildings combined. Check zoning first (608-266-4551, ext. 3). Building Inspection is by appointment, and you bring a scaled site plan. Fees depend on the project. Prefabricated sheds count too. This covers the City of Madison only; other communities set their own rules. Source: City of Madison Development Services Center, New Shed and New Garage (checked November 2026).
Written by the MadisonWI.com editors · November 13, 2026