Shed Built on Skids: Permits & DIY Guide (US)

Considering a shed built on skids offers a flexible solution for storage or workspace needs, it’s essential to understand the regulatory landscape. The International Code Council (ICC) provides building codes that many local jurisdictions in the US adopt, so researching local permit requirements becomes a necessary first step. While skid foundations offer portability, this doesn’t always exempt a structure from needing permits; therefore, consulting with your local zoning department is crucial before construction begins. Furthermore, ensuring you have the appropriate tools, like a Skil saw for accurate lumber cuts, alongside a well-defined DIY plan, will contribute significantly to a successful and code-compliant project.

Building a Shed on Skids: Navigating Permits and DIY Construction

Planning to construct a shed on skids? This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the necessary permits and offers a step-by-step DIY construction guide to help you through the process. Sheds built on skids offer a portable storage solution, making them a popular choice for homeowners. However, understanding local regulations and proper construction techniques is crucial for a successful project.

Understanding the Appeal of Sheds on Skids

Sheds built on skids offer several advantages over permanent structures:

• Portability: The primary benefit is the ability to move the shed. This is especially useful if you anticipate relocating the shed within your property or even to a different location altogether.
• Potentially Fewer Permits: In some jurisdictions, sheds on skids are treated differently than permanent structures regarding permits. They may be considered temporary structures, potentially simplifying the permitting process. (This will be fully covered below).
• Easier Installation: Compared to building a shed on a concrete foundation, a skid-mounted shed can be faster and less labor-intensive to install.
• Cost-Effective: Eliminating the need for a concrete foundation can save on material and labor costs.

Permitting Considerations for Sheds on Skids

The rules surrounding permits for sheds on skids are complex and vary significantly based on your local municipality (city, county, or town). It’s critical to research local regulations before beginning any construction. Assuming that because it’s "portable" it doesn’t need a permit can lead to costly fines or even forced removal of the shed.

Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to investigate:

1. Contact Your Local Building Department: This is the most important step. Contact your city or county’s building department directly. Explain your intention to build a shed on skids, specifying its dimensions and intended use.
2. Zoning Regulations: Zoning regulations dictate what types of structures are allowed on your property. These regulations often include setbacks (the distance a structure must be from property lines), height restrictions, and maximum square footage limits.
3. "Temporary" vs. "Permanent" Structures: Clarify how your municipality defines "temporary" vs. "permanent" structures. While a shed on skids might be considered temporary, the definition can be tied to factors like:
   • How long the shed remains in place.
   • Whether it’s connected to utilities (electricity, plumbing).
   • Whether it has a permanent foundation (even if it’s just gravel).
4. Size Restrictions: Many jurisdictions have size limits for sheds that can be built without a permit. Even if a permit isn’t required, you may still need to adhere to zoning regulations regarding setbacks and height.
5. Skid Requirements: Some areas may have specific requirements for the skids themselves, such as the type of material allowed (treated lumber is usually required) or the spacing between skids.

To help you organize your research, consider using a table like this:

Municipality (City/County)	Contact Information (Phone, Website)	Zoning Regulations Link	Permit Requirements Link	Definition of "Temporary Structure"	Size Restrictions (Without Permit)	Skid Requirements (If Any)	Notes
Example City, USA	(555) 123-4567, city.example.gov	city.example.gov/zoning	city.example.gov/permits	Less than 120 days, no utilities	120 sq ft maximum	Treated lumber, 4×6 minimum	Clarify setback requirements
Your City/County

Filling out this table will provide a clear picture of your local requirements.

DIY Guide: Building a Shed on Skids

This section provides a general guide to building a shed on skids. Remember to adapt these steps to your specific design and local building codes.

I. Planning and Preparation:

1. Design: Create detailed plans, including dimensions, materials list, and framing diagrams. Numerous free and paid shed plans are available online.
2. Materials: Purchase all necessary materials, including lumber (pressure-treated for ground contact), sheathing, roofing, siding, fasteners, and any desired features like windows or doors.
3. Tools: Gather the required tools, including a circular saw, drill, level, measuring tape, hammer, and safety equipment (eye protection, gloves).
4. Site Preparation: Choose a level location for your shed. Clear away any vegetation and debris. While skids elevate the shed, ensuring a level base will make construction easier and prevent future problems.

II. Building the Skid Foundation:

1. Cut Skids: Cut the pressure-treated lumber to the desired length for your skids. The number of skids depends on the size of the shed; consult your plans.
2. Level Skids: Place the skids on the prepared site. Use shims or gravel to ensure they are level with each other. This is critical for a stable shed.
3. Frame the Base: Construct a rectangular frame on top of the skids using pressure-treated lumber. Securely attach the frame to the skids using appropriate fasteners (screws or nails). Ensure the frame is square.

III. Framing the Walls:

1. Cut Studs: Cut the wall studs to the correct height. Consider the height of the shed and any desired ceiling height.
2. Assemble Walls: Assemble the wall frames on the ground, including studs, top plates, and bottom plates. Ensure proper spacing between studs (typically 16 or 24 inches on center). Include openings for doors and windows.
3. Raise and Secure Walls: Carefully raise each wall frame and secure it to the base frame. Use temporary bracing to keep the walls plumb until they are fully secured.

IV. Installing Sheathing and Roofing:

1. Sheathing: Attach sheathing (plywood or OSB) to the exterior walls. This provides structural stability and a surface for attaching siding.
2. Roof Framing: Construct the roof frame using rafters or trusses. Ensure the roof frame is securely attached to the walls.
3. Roofing Sheathing: Install sheathing on the roof frame.
4. Roofing Material: Install the chosen roofing material (shingles, metal, etc.) according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

V. Siding and Finishing:

1. Install Siding: Attach the chosen siding to the exterior walls.
2. Install Doors and Windows: Install doors and windows, ensuring they are properly sealed to prevent leaks.
3. Interior Finishing (Optional): Add insulation, interior walls, or flooring as desired.

VI. Anchoring (Optional but Recommended):

While sheds on skids are designed to be portable, securing them to the ground with anchors, especially in areas prone to high winds, is always advisable. Ground anchors, auger anchors, or tie-down straps can be used to provide added stability.

By carefully following these steps and ensuring compliance with local regulations, you can successfully build a durable and functional shed on skids. Remember to prioritize safety and double-check all measurements and connections.

So, whether you’re dreaming of a backyard workshop, a potting shed, or just some extra storage, building a shed built on skids is a totally achievable project. Just remember to check those local regulations and take your time with the build, and you’ll be enjoying your new space in no time!