Shed Installation Permits in Aurora

Local Rule

City of Aurora Division of Building and Permits; Aurora Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), Chapter 146 — sources conflict on the exact figure

Aurora is reported to require a permit for a detached shed larger than 70 square feet; at least one other source instead describes a 160-square-foot cap that defines the "shed" category itself, above which the structure is reclassified as a detached garage or accessory building requiring a more comprehensive permit process, so the exact exemption figure carries some uncertainty. A permitted shed can reach a maximum height of 14 feet to the roof peak (8 feet vertical wall height), is allowed only in the rear yard with one per property, and must sit at least 3 feet from side property lines, 5 feet from the rear property line, and 6 feet from the principal structure unless fire-rated. Sheds cannot be placed in any public utility easement, and fabric, vinyl, nylon, or canvas coverings are prohibited.

Source · Verified September 2026

Aurora Building Department

Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.

How This Compares to Kane County

Aurora's own rule is shown above (No permit under 70 sqft). Here is the separate rule that applies at the county level, for context:

Kane County Development & Community Services

Kane County removed the shed exemption in IRC Section R105.2 entirely, textually deleting the exemption clause in its own 2021 building codes handout. Every shed in unincorporated Kane County requires a permit regardless of size. Separately, the county caps total combined accessory-structure floor area at 900 sq ft on lots of 2 acres or less, and 1,800 sq ft on lots between 2 and 5 acres.

See the full county page

Nearby Cities with Verified Rules

Other cities near Aurora 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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