Before constructing a metal building, you’ll likely need a permit from your local government. While the process might seem inconvenient, it’s there for a reason—permits ensure safety and compliance with local regulations.
Every region has different soil conditions and weather factors that must be considered when planning a metal building. Local codes are designed to ensure structural stability based on these conditions.
These regulations dictate the size, height, and placement of any structure added to your property.
Setback Requirements & Legal Compliance
Zoning laws include setback requirements, which determine how much space must be left between your metal building and your property lines.
If you’re working with a trusted contractor, they will require a permit before installation begins. Be cautious of contractors who skip permits—they may cut corners, leading to a weaker structure and legal issues down the road.
Check CC&Rs
Before reaching out to your local government, check whether your community has any building restrictions. If your property is located within a subdivision, it may fall under Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) that define what can and cannot be constructed on your land.
If you belong to a Homeowners Association (HOA), ask about specific limitations regarding detached metal buildings.
If your property is not part of an HOA, review the documents from your property purchase to see if any CC&Rs restrict construction.
Check Government Regulations
Your local planning department can provide details about general building codes and setback requirements that apply to your land.
While you might be able to research regulations online, it can be time-consuming to locate the correct ordinances and sift through complex legal documents.
Instead of spending hours searching, it’s much faster to simply call the planning department and ask the key questions listed in the next section.
Before you call, make sure you have this information ready:
- Your address
- The length and width of your future metal building
- An idea for where you want to put your metal building
Finding the Right Contact Number
Your next step is to locate the correct department to call. If you live in a city or town, search for your local planning department online. If you’re in a rural area, look up your county’s planning office.
The department may be listed under “Zoning Department“, “Land Use and Development“, or “Building and Planning“.
For example, when searching for the Page County VA Planning Department, I found contacts for:
- Planning Commission
- Planning & Community Development
- Zoning Office
The phone number was the same for all. If you call the wrong office, they’ll likely redirect you.
Questions to Ask When You Call the Planning Department
Is my property covered under your jurisdiction?
How far must my metal building be from the front, back, and sides of my property?
What is the required distance between my house and the metal building?
If I want to place it in front of my house, is that allowed?
If I have a well or septic system, how far must my metal building be from it?
Are there height restrictions for metal buildings?
Are there color or style limitations for detached metal buildings?
What permits and inspections are necessary for installing a detached metal building?
Which department issues permits? If different, can you provide the correct contact number?
Here are the questions to ask the department that issues building permits:
Is there an online application for permits?
How long does it take to receive a permit?
Are certified plans required to apply?
What are the foundation requirements?
Does the ground need to be graded before installation? If so, by how much?
Are there wind, snow, or gust-load certification requirements?
What is the cost of obtaining the permit?
In the next chapter, I’ll guide you through preparing your metal building site for a smooth installation
