What are the shed bylaws in Ottawa?

In Ottawa, sheds are regulated by zoning bylaws and may require building permits depending on size and location. Here's what you need to know about shed regulations in Ottawa:

Shed Size and Permit Requirements

For sheds under 108 square feet (10 square meters), you typically don't need a building permit from the City of Ottawa. However, sheds over 108 square feet require a building permit through City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424). The permit fee ranges from $100-300 for simple accessory structures.

Zoning Setback Requirements

Ottawa's zoning bylaw requires specific setbacks for sheds:

• Minimum 0.6 meters (2 feet) from side property lines


• Minimum 0.6 meters (2 feet) from rear property line


• Must be in the rear yard - sheds cannot be placed in front yards


• Maximum height of 4.5 meters for accessory buildings

Different neighborhoods like Kanata, Orleans, Barrhaven, and older areas like the Glebe may have additional heritage or community-specific restrictions, so always verify with your specific zoning.

What to Watch For

Even if your shed doesn't require a permit, it must still comply with zoning setbacks. Many homeowners get caught placing sheds too close to property lines, which can result in enforcement action requiring expensive relocation. Before installation, measure carefully from your property pins - if you're unsure of your exact property boundaries, consider having them surveyed.

Be particularly careful about underground utilities. Call Ontario One Call (1-800-400-2255) before any digging, even for shed foundations. This free service marks underground gas, electrical, and water lines.

Foundation and Electrical Considerations

If you're adding electrical service to your shed, you'll need an ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) permit regardless of shed size. Only Licensed Electrical Contractors can pull ESA permits, though homeowners can do their own electrical work with proper ESA inspection. Check contractor licenses at esasafe.com/contractor-locator.

For sheds requiring concrete foundations or footings, you may trigger additional permit requirements under the Ontario Building Code, even if the shed itself is under 108 square feet.

Getting Approval

Contact City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 or visit ottawa.ca/building to verify requirements for your specific situation. Provide your address, proposed shed dimensions, and intended location on your property. Staff can confirm whether permits are needed and explain the application process.

For permit applications, you'll typically need a site plan showing the shed location, dimensions, and setbacks from property lines. Simple shed permits usually take 10-15 business days to process.

Remember that even permitted sheds must comply with any homeowner association rules in planned communities throughout Ottawa's suburbs.