Shed Installation Permits in Boulder

Local Rule

City of Boulder Planning and Development Services; City of Boulder Residential Accessory Structure Guide

Boulder exempts a detached shed, pergola, or other accessory structure smaller than 80 square feet, shorter than 10 feet in height, with no electrical, plumbing, or mechanical equipment, from a building permit; the structure must still meet all applicable code requirements, including accessory building setbacks. This threshold is stricter than the 120-square-foot exemption used by Boulder County for unincorporated areas, a separate jurisdiction. Any new structure in a flood zone or wetland requires a floodplain and/or wetland development permit even if it doesn't need a building permit, and any new structure in a historic district requires a Landmark Alteration Certificate regardless of building-permit status.

Source · Verified September 2026

Boulder Building Department

Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.

How This Compares to Boulder County

Boulder's own rule is shown above (No permit under 80 sqft). Here is the separate rule that applies at the county level, for context:

Boulder County Community Planning & Permitting

Boulder uses a stricter 120 sq ft limit than most Colorado counties (agricultural loafing sheds get a separate 200 sq ft allowance). The structure must be under 12 ft tall with no utilities, and the number of exempt structures allowed depends on parcel size.

See the full county page

Nearby Cities with Verified Rules

Other cities near Boulder with a confirmed shed installation rule:

FAQs

Building It Yourself? Here's What You'll Need

Popular tools and materials homeowners use for a shed installation project:

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