Shed Installation Permits in Bellevue

Local Rule

City of Bellevue Development Services Department; Bellevue City Code Section 23.05.090 (Permits Required)

Bellevue exempts a one-story detached structure accessory to a one- or two-family residence, used as a tool or storage shed, tree-supported play structure, playhouse, or similar use, from a building permit when the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet, per City Code Section 23.05.090. Exempted structures do not require a building permit but must comply with all Land Use Code requirements; the shed must sit at least 10 feet from any street right-of-way, access easement, or private road, and at least 5 feet from side and rear property lines. Maximum height is 15 feet. Properties containing a critical area (wetland, stream, steep slope) or within the Shoreline Overlay District face additional requirements.

Source · Verified September 2026

Bellevue Building Department

Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.

How This Compares to King County

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

King County / local code

Washington requires a building permit for a shed over 120 square feet, or any shed taller than one story, attached to the house, or wired for electricity or plumbing. In King County a shed of 120 square feet or less is generally exempt from the building permit but still must meet zoning setbacks (commonly 5 feet from property lines).

See the full county page

Nearby Cities with Verified Rules

Other cities near Bellevue with a confirmed shed installation rule:

FAQs

Building It Yourself? Here's What You'll Need

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