Shed Permit Requirements in Henrico, VA

Henrico County is an independent county surrounding Richmond. Virginia USBC based on 2018 IRC.

By Joey, Founder · Last verified March 29, 2026 · How we research →

Population: 334,389 Code: 2018 Verified: 2026-03-29 3 local rules

When you don’t need a Shed permit in Henrico

Exempt·Rule 1

Detached accessory structures (sheds) 256 sq ft or less and one story are generally exempt from a building permit per VUSBC.

SourceHenrico County Code / VUSBC 2021 / 2021 IRC

When you need a Shed permit in Henrico

Required·Rule 1

Sheds over 256 sq ft require a building permit.

Estimated Fee$100 – $300
Typical Timelineabout 2 weeks
SourceHenrico County Code / VUSBC 2021 / 2021 IRC
Required·Rule 2

Sheds with electrical wiring require an electrical permit regardless of size.

Estimated Fee$100 – $150
Typical Timelineabout 1 week
SourceHenrico County Code / VUSBC 2021 / 2021 IRC

Shed Permit Costs: Henrico vs. Nearby

Henrico runs higher than average for Virginia. Expect $100 – $300 versus the state average of $62 – $208.

CityEstimated Fee
Henrico $100 – $300
Virginia Beach $50 – $300
Chesterfield $45 – $270
Chesapeake $40 – $255

Fees shown are estimates based on local building code data. Actual fees may vary based on project scope and valuation. See all Henrico permit costs →

Zoning & HOA Considerations

Zoning

Sheds may be subject to zoning setback requirements and lot coverage limits. Placement near property lines or in front yards may require zoning approval.

HOA Communities

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 Henrico

Here's a typical timeline for a shed project in Henrico, VA:

Week 1
Get quotes & finalize design
Contact licensed contractors, get 3+ quotes, finalize project scope and drawings (plan drawings required).
Week 2
Prepare permit documents
Contractor prepares site plan, construction drawings, and permit application. Gather required documents per your city's checklist.
Week 3
Submit permit application
Your contractor submits the application to Henrico's building department, apply online here.
Week 4-5
Plan review & approval
Typical processing time in Henrico: about 2 weeks. Plan review examiner checks drawings for code compliance.
Week 6+
Construction & inspections
Post the permit card on site. Work begins. Schedule inspections at required stages (varies by project). Final inspection required before closing the permit.

Timeline is based on Henrico's typical about 2 weeks permit processing time. Actual timelines vary by project complexity, completeness of application, and current department workload.

Need a Shed permit in Henrico, VA?

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Building Department Contact

NameHenrico County Building Inspections
Address4301 E. Parham Rd., Henrico, VA 23228
HoursMon-Fri 8am-4:30pm

Frequently Asked Questions

Estimated permit fees for Shed projects in Henrico, VA range from $100 – $300. 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 Henrico 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 Henrico 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 →

Estimate your permit fees →

Disclaimer: This information was last verified on 2026-03-29. Building permit requirements may change. Zoning requirements (setbacks, lot coverage, height limits) are separate and vary by location. Always confirm with your local building and planning departments before starting your project. PermitMint provides general guidance, not legal advice.