Living in a Homeowners Association (HOA) community offers many benefits such as well-maintained common areas and consistent neighborhood aesthetics. However, these advantages come with specific rules, especially when planning outdoor additions like a shed. Building a shed without following HOA guidelines can lead to delays, fines, or even costly removals.
Please note that HOA regulations vary widely by community. This guide provides general information, but it’s essential to verify your individual HOA’s specific requirements before purchasing or installing a shed. Being informed upfront helps avoid headaches and ensures a smooth, compliant installation.
Understanding Homeowners Association (HOA) Requirements
What is an HOA?
A Homeowners Association is an organization that sets and enforces rules within a residential community to preserve property values, ensure aesthetic consistency, and maintain quality of life for residents.
This sample from Oakridge II & III HOA in Wichita, KS shows what a typical HOA project approval form might look like. While every HOA is different, forms like this often request shed dimensions, materials, and placement details. Always consult your specific HOA for their exact requirements.
Why Do HOAs Have Rules for Sheds?
If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowners association (HOA), you’ve probably noticed there are rules for just about everything - sheds included. But why is that?
- To Keep Things Looking Consistent: HOAs aim to maintain a cohesive look across the community, so sheds are expected to match the overall style of the neighborhood.
- To Protect Property Values: A poorly placed or unattractive shed could bring down nearby home values, so rules help prevent that.
- To Maintain Good Neighbor Relations: Shed rules help avoid issues like blocked views, noise complaints, or property line disputes.
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To Ensure Safety and Compliance: HOAs also want to make sure any new structure — including sheds — is built safely and follows local building codes.
Common HOA Shed Requirements:
If you're thinking about adding a shed to your property in an HOA community, there are a few common rules you'll likely need to follow:
- Get Approval First: Most HOAs require you to submit an application before building or placing a shed. This usually goes to the HOA board or an architectural review committee for approval.
- Size and Height Limits: HOAs often cap how big and tall your shed can be - for example, a maximum size of 10x12 feet and a height of 10 to 12 feet. These rules can be even stricter than local building codes.
- Where You Can Put It: Sheds are typically only allowed in the backyard. They often need to be a certain distance from property lines and kept out of sight from the street.
- Materials and Colors Matter: Many HOAs want your shed to match or complement your house. That might mean using specific materials like wood or vinyl, and sticking to approved colors or roof styles.
- Approved Foundations: Some associations also have rules about what kind of base your shed must sit on — concrete slabs or similarly sturdy foundations are often required.
- Architectural Review: Before you build, a committee may review your shed’s design, the materials you’re using, and even any landscaping you plan to add around it.
How to Get HOA Approval for Your Shed
1. Start by Reviewing HOA Guidelines
First, take time to carefully read through your HOA’s Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs), along with any other architectural guidelines.
These documents will tell you exactly what is, and isn’t, allowed when it comes to adding sheds.
2. Contact the HOA If You’re Unsure
If anything feels unclear or you're just not sure where and how to start, reach out to your HOA board. They're there to help clarify the process, share any forms you might need, and explain what's expected for your shed approval.
3. Put Together a Detailed Proposal
Once you understand the rules, it’s time to prepare your shed proposal. Most HOAs will want to see:
- The shed’s dimensions (length, width, and height)
- The materials and colors you plan to use
- A site plan showing exactly where the shed will go and how far it sits from property lines and nearby structures
- Photos or design renderings of the shed
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Completed application forms and payment of any required fees
4. Don’t Forget About City or County Permits
Even if your HOA gives you the green light, that doesn’t mean you’re done. In many areas, you’ll also need a building or shed permit from your city or county. Requirements vary based on location, shed size, and usage, so it’s important to check with your local building department.
5. Submit Early and Be Patient
HOA approval isn’t always quick - it can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days or more. Make sure to submit your application early and follow up politely if you haven’t heard back within a reasonable timeframe.
6. Every HOA Is Different
Lastly, keep in mind that no two HOAs are exactly alike. Always follow your specific community’s process and requirements to ensure a smooth approval experience.
The process for obtaining HOA approval varies by community, so be sure to contact your HOA directly and follow their specific requirements.
Consequences of Not Complying with HOA Rules
Ignoring HOA shed rules can lead to:
- Fines: Daily or one-time financial penalties can accumulate quickly.
- Forced Removal or Modification: You might be ordered to tear down or alter your shed at your own cost.
- Legal Action: In extreme cases, the HOA could pursue lawsuits, leading to added stress and expenses.
- Selling Difficulties: Unapproved structures may complicate or delay property sales.
- Neighborhood Disputes: Violations may strain relations with neighbors and the HOA board.
How to Select a Shed That Aligns with HOA Rules
Choosing a shed that fits within local HOA shed rules doesn’t have to be complicated. At Duramax Sheds Online, we make it easy for you to find and choose a shed that will meet all requirements.
When browsing products, use the filters located on the left side of our collection pages to select your desired Approximate Dimensions and Approximate Height. These parameters will filter out sheds for you that will meet the size requirements of your local homeowners association.
Each shed on our website includes a technical drawing, which is often required as part of the documentation when applying for a building permit or HOA approval.
The drawings outline the shed’s dimensions (width, depth, height, roof extensions), helping you ensure that the shed you choose meets all necessary size specifications.
You’ll find these drawings located under the “Specifications” tab on each product page.
We’re here to support you in finding a shed that works both practically and legally on your property. Call 844-900-2050 with any questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all HOAs require approval for sheds?
Most HOAs require prior approval for sheds, even if local permits aren’t necessary. Always check your HOA’s specific rules.
What information does my HOA need for shed approval?
Typically, dimensions, materials, color, use, and a detailed site plan showing the shed’s location.
How long does HOA approval take?
It varies but can range from a few weeks up to two months depending on the HOA’s process.
Can my HOA dictate my shed’s color?
Yes, many HOAs have architectural guidelines regulating acceptable colors and materials to maintain neighborhood aesthetics.
What if my HOA denies my shed application?
Review their feedback, adjust your plans accordingly, and resubmit. Some HOAs offer an appeals process.
Duramax Sheds & Your HOA Compliance
Both permits and HOAs often require technical dimension drawings as part of the approval process. Duramax Sheds Online provides these detailed drawings on the product pages for each of our sheds. Additionally, we are happy to supply these documents directly to customers upon request. Please feel free to contact us.
Duramax Sheds are designed for easy assembly and long-lasting durability. However, ensuring your shed complies with HOA requirements is a crucial step for a smooth installation and lasting enjoyment. Planning ahead and adhering to your HOA’s guidelines helps you avoid delays, fines, or costly modifications.