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Shed Permit in New Castle County, Delaware

Permit Required
Unknown
Authority
New Castle County
Maximum Height
20 ft
Setback
3 ft
Last Verified
2026-09-29
Visit Building Department

What the official source says

“Sheds or garages on lots of one acre or less are allowed to be a maximum of 20' in height measured to the highest part of the roof.”

newcastlede.gov

“Provided the eave height is less than 10', and the overall height is less than 20', you can build a shed up to 200 square feet without a permit, but all setback requirements must still be followed.”

newcastlede.gov

“The New Castle County Unified Development Code (UDC) requires that sheds and garages be a minimum of 3' from rear and rear-side property lines.”

newcastlede.gov

Verify before you build — primary source for this page: https://www.newcastlede.gov/DocumentCenter/View/415/Sheds-and-Detached-Garages-FAQ

Size / Height Limits

Maximum size without a permit: 200 sq ft.

Maximum height without a permit: 20 ft.

Setbacks

Minimum setback: 3 ft.

How to apply

  1. Confirm the rules for your address with New Castle County — the official sources on this page are the place to start.
  2. Prepare a simple site plan or drawing showing where the shed work goes and its size.
  3. Submit the application and pay the permit fee.
  4. Schedule the required inspections and keep the approved permit on site.

More detail: our shed permit guide.

Building Department

New Castle County

Official Sources

FAQ

Is there a size or height limit before a shed permit is needed in New Castle County?

The verified threshold is 20 ft in height and 200 sq ft in area.

Where do I apply for a shed permit in New Castle County?

Applications go to New Castle County.

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