Do I need a permit for a small shed?

Two different permits, and only one of them has a size exemption. This is the single most common misunderstanding about small buildings here.

**Clare County building permit — not required under 144 square feet.** An accessory building or structure of less than 144 square feet does not require one, **provided** it meets all the yard requirements for accessory buildings.

**Freeman Township zoning permit — always required.** The Accessory Building Regulations state that **all** accessory building construction requires a zoning permit issued by the Freeman Township zoning department. That includes:

- Prefabricated structures — an installation counts
- **New structures replacing existing ones**

There is no small-size exemption on the zoning side.

**And Architectural Committee approval on top.** The covenants require plans to be submitted and approved in writing before any building or structure is commenced, erected or maintained.

**So a small shed needs two of the three** — Committee approval and a Township zoning permit — and escapes only the County building permit.

**The setbacks are not waived either.** Ten feet from any side or rear lot line, ten feet from your house, measured at the drip edge, and within the 25 percent lot coverage cap.

**Before you buy or book a delivery**, talk to the office and to the Township.

*Source: Accessory Building Regulations (6/8/2025), items 3 and 16; Zoning Ordinance No. 8, Section 14.04.*