Shed Permit Requirements in St. Johns County, FL
St. Johns County Building Services issues all residential permits (building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, roof, pool) for unincorporated county land outside the City of St. Augustine and City of St. Augustine Beach. Codes in force: Florida Building Code 8th Edition (2023) residential and building, NEC 2020, ASCE 7-22 wind design. County is in the wind-borne debris region (not HVHZ, which is only Miami-Dade and Broward). Impact-rated windows and doors or approved storm shutters required for residential openings. Septic permits handled by Florida Department of Health in St. Johns County at (904) 506-6081. Driveways on county roads go through St. Johns County Road and Bridge; driveways on US-1 or I-95 require FDOT approval. Historic district overlays may apply in some areas. Licensed FL CILB contractors required for most trades; owner-builder allowed under F.S. 489.103(7) for homesteaded primary residence with personal supervision affidavit.
By Joey, Founder · Last verified April 20, 2026 · How we research →
When you don’t need a Shed permit in St. Johns County
Accessory structures (sheds) 200 sq ft or less that are not used for living or storage of hazardous materials are exempt from a building permit per FBCR 8th Edition R105.2. County zoning setbacks still apply and the shed must be anchored to resist wind loads.
When you need a Shed permit in St. Johns County
Sheds over 200 sq ft require a building permit from St. Johns County Building Services. Plans showing foundation, framing, tie-downs for wind loads, and setback compliance are required.
Large accessory structures over 600 sq ft require a building permit with full construction plans, engineered wind-load design per ASCE 7-22, and typically a Florida-licensed contractor (CILB) unless an owner-builder affidavit is on file for a primary residence.
Shed Permit Costs: St. Johns County vs. Nearby
St. Johns County runs higher than average for Florida. Expect $125 – $600 versus the state average of $75 – $266.
| City | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| St. Johns County | $125 – $600 |
| Jacksonville | $80 – $300 |
| Miami | $65 – $650 |
| Tampa | $45 – $450 |
Fees shown are estimates based on local building code data. Actual fees may vary based on project scope and valuation. See all St. Johns County permit costs →
Zoning & HOA Considerations
Sheds may be subject to zoning setback requirements and lot coverage limits. Placement near property lines or in front yards may require zoning approval.
If you live in an HOA community: many HOAs restrict or prohibit outbuildings. Check your CC&Rs for rules on shed size, placement, materials, and appearance before purchasing or building.
Estimated Project Timeline in St. Johns County
Here's a typical timeline for a shed project in St. Johns County, FL:
Timeline is based on St. Johns County's typical about 2 weeks permit processing time. Actual timelines vary by project complexity, completeness of application, and current department workload.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Estimated permit fees for Shed projects in St. Johns County, FL range from $125 – $600. Fees vary based on project scope and valuation.
It depends on the specifics of your project. Some smaller Shed projects may be exempt from permit requirements, while larger ones typically require a permit. Use our free lookup tool to check your specific situation.
Working without a required permit in St. Johns County can result in fines, stop-work orders, being required to remove completed work, and complications when selling your home. It's always best to check first.
Typical approval time for Shed permits in St. Johns County is about 2 weeks. More complex projects may take longer if plan review is required.
If you live in an HOA community, you may need architectural review approval in addition to a building permit. HOA rules and city building codes are separate, you may need to satisfy both. Review your CC&Rs and submit to your HOA's architectural review committee before starting work.
Learn More About Shed Permits
Read our complete guide covering permit requirements, costs, common exemptions, and the application process.
Read Shed Guide →