Rules & Licenses · New York City
Staten Island Fence and Shed Work Has Size Lines
Staten Island homeowners should check DOB fence and backyard-shed thresholds before treating yard work as permit-free.
Published June 23, 2026 · Last verified July 28, 2026
A fence 6 feet or shorter at a one- or two-family home normally does not need a DOB permit. Zoning, a landmark designation, and the true property line can still change what may be built.
The permit-free shed rule is narrower. The shed must be a temporary, portable, freestanding backyard shed for ordinary household storage. It may be no larger than 120 square feet or taller than 7 feet 6 inches. It cannot block a required window, be permanently attached to the land, or sit within 3 feet of a lot line. Only one exempt shed is allowed on the tax lot.
At 121 square feet, the shed is outside the exemption. Do not treat it as permit-free. NYC Buildings says larger sheds need plans, approval, and permits. A shed planned within 3 feet of a property line also needs plans showing nonflammable materials and compliance with the size rules.
For example, an 8-by-15-foot shed is 120 square feet and may fit the size line; an 11-by-11-foot shed is 121 square feet and does not. Before ordering it, measure the outside footprint and distance to each lot line, check zoning and landmark status, and confirm the filing route with DOB. A paid home-improvement contractor must also have the required DCWP license.