Shed Installation Permits in Columbia

Local Rule

City of Columbia Development Services; South Carolina Building Code Section 105.2 (2021 IRC-based) — city publishes a dedicated small-structure permit application regardless of exemption size

Columbia generally follows the statewide 200-square-foot exemption for a one-story detached accessory structure such as a shed; structures over 200 square feet, or exceeding 12 feet in any single dimension, require a building permit and zoning approval. The city separately publishes a dedicated Accessory Structure permit application specifically for a detached, uninhabited structure of 200 square feet or less, so even small sheds are commonly processed as a permitted activity by Development Services rather than treated as fully exempt. Contractors and subcontractors working in Columbia must be licensed in South Carolina for the scope of work performed.

Source · Verified September 2026

Columbia Building Department

Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.

How This Compares to Richland County

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

Richland County Building Codes / SC Building Codes Council

Accessory structures in residential districts also cannot exceed 50% of the principal building's floor area or 1,200 sq ft, whichever is greater, and must sit at least 10 ft from any property line in the rear yard.

See the full county page

Nearby Cities with Verified Rules

Other cities near Columbia 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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