Shed Installation Permits in Lowell

Local Rule

City of Lowell Division of Development Services; Massachusetts State Building Code 780 CMR

Lowell requires a building permit for storage sheds that exceed 200 square feet, per the city's own Storage Shed Permits page. A shed no more than 200 square feet in area and 16 feet in height may be located within the side and rear yard setbacks, but it must be at least 10 feet from the dwelling. A shed up to 200 square feet does not require a foundation but must still be anchored to the ground to prevent overturning from wind. Sheds greater than 200 square feet, or with utilities connected such as plumbing, gas, electric, or sewer, require a full building permit regardless of size.

Source · Verified September 2026

Lowell Building Department

Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.

How This Compares to Middlesex County

Lowell's own rule is shown above (No permit under 200 sqft). Here is the separate rule that applies at the county level, for context:

No county-level building department — each town administers

780 CMR exempts one-story sheds under 200 sq ft from a building permit statewide, but Middlesex towns diverge on the details: Bedford requires a separate "shed permit" plus a certified plot plan even for sheds under 200 sq ft (short of the full building permit), while Andover only requires a building permit above 200 sq ft with a minimum 5 ft setback. Statewide, 780 CMR requires footings for any structure over 600 sq ft.

See the full county page

Nearby Cities with Verified Rules

Other cities near Lowell 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:

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.