Project template
Your preparation checklist
Use it as a working list. The final submission still needs to match your actual scope and the City’s current requirements.
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What to do next
- Measure the shed’s gross area (15 m² maximum to qualify for the shed exemption)
- Confirm it is detached, single-storey, storage-only and has no plumbing
- Check setbacks, lot coverage and maximum height against Clarington zoning
- If it is another type of accessory building, check the general 10 m² permit threshold
- Ask Clarington Building Services about any separate grading, site-alteration or other property-specific approval
Official sources behind this page
Clarington Senior Plans Examiner confirmed the Ontario Building Code shed exception October 30, 2026. Division C 1.3.1.1.(6): no more than 15 m² gross area, one storey, detached from all other buildings/structures, ancillary storage use only, and no plumbing. Zoning is still mandatory. The general City webpage says 10 m² for accessory structures without distinguishing this exception.
Structures that do not need a building permit must still comply with local zoning requirements for size, type and location.
Clarington Building Services confirmed October 30, 2026 that buildings other than qualifying storage sheds use the general 10 m² threshold. Check specific uses, plumbing, zoning and other site-specific approvals.
Need the full project answer?
The main guide keeps the permit trigger, zoning questions, documents, fees, timing and next steps together.
Open the shed / accessory structure guide