Shed Installation Permits in Rochester

Local Rule

City of Rochester Bureau of Buildings / Zoning Division; City of Rochester Self-Serve Permitting Instructions (Residential Sheds, Garages and Carports)

Rochester does not require a building permit for a shed under 144 square feet, but a $50 Certificate of Zoning Compliance must still be obtained, per the city's own self-serve permitting instructions; sheds larger than 144 square feet require a full building permit. A shed, garage, or carport must be accessory to the residential use on the same parcel, is capped at 15 feet in height (10 feet for carports), and cannot be styled as a Quonset hut or similar industrial/agricultural metal or plastic structure. Properties in a Preservation District or designated as a Building of Historic Value may need a Certificate of Appropriateness for certain work.

Source · Verified September 2026

Rochester Building Department

Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.

How This Compares to Monroe County

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

Monroe County / local code

New York State exempts detached sheds up to 144 square feet from a building permit. In Monroe County a shed of 144 square feet or less is generally exempt, but a larger shed, utilities, or a permanent foundation triggers a permit, and local zoning setbacks apply. Some towns set stricter limits.

See the full county page

Nearby Cities with Verified Rules

Other cities near Rochester 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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