Shed Installation Permits in Albany

Local Rule

City of Albany Department of Buildings & Regulatory Compliance; Albany City Code Article III (Use Regulations); Residential Code of New York State

Albany caps a storage shed in residential zoning districts at 200 square feet in area under the city's zoning code, while the Department of Buildings & Regulatory Compliance treats a one-story storage shed under 144 square feet as exempt from a building permit; permit fees for structures above that size are calculated at $0.50 per square foot with a $75 minimum. Even a permit-exempt shed must meet the setback distances specified in the zoning code and cannot be located in an easement. Properties in one of Albany's historic districts may face additional architectural review for accessory structures regardless of size. Applications and questions go through the Department of Buildings & Regulatory Compliance at 200 Henry Johnson Blvd.

Source · Verified September 2026

Albany Building Department

Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.

How This Compares to Albany County

Albany's own rule is shown above (No permit under 144 sqft). Here is the separate rule that applies at the county level, for context:

Municipal — administered individually by each city/town; NY

As elsewhere in New York, the 144 sq ft shed exemption is an opt-in choice for each municipality. The City of Albany's own guide confirms sheds may need a permit above a 120 to 144 sq ft range, in line with the general statewide baseline.

See the full county page

Nearby Cities with Verified Rules

Other cities near Albany 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.