BuildRules/Markham/Shed / accessory structure

Markham shed permits

Do you need a permit for a shed in Markham?

Check Markham shed permit rules, the under-15 m² one-storey no-plumbing exemption, zoning and application requirements.

1 min readReviewed Oct 1, 2026

The short answerConditional

A detached single-storey accessory building without plumbing can be permit-exempt when it is less than 15 m².

Markham’s current permit-process page lists the under-15 m² accessory-building exemption for housing projects. The structure still needs to comply with the zoning by-law.

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What changes the answer.

Start with these conditions. The official reference is attached to each one.

Accessory buildingPermit not required under 15 m² when the listed conditions are metConditional

Markham lists detached single-storey accessory buildings with no plumbing and less than 15 m² among housing projects that do not need a building permit.

Official sourceCity of MarkhamBuilding Permit Process · Permit triggers, exemptions, zoning and application requirements

Verified2026-10-01Open proof

PlumbingChanges the permit questionConditional

Markham lists a new building containing plumbing as permit-required irrespective of size.

Official sourceCity of MarkhamBuilding Permit Process · Permit triggers, exemptions, zoning and application requirements

Verified2026-10-01Open proof

ZoningStill appliesInfo

The City directs applicants to confirm zoning requirements even when a building permit exemption applies.

Official sourceCity of MarkhamBuilding Permit Process · Permit triggers, exemptions, zoning and application requirements

Verified2026-10-01Open proof

Your preparation checklist

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Exact gross floor area
Building height and number of storeys
Property/site plan and proposed location
Intended use and any plumbing information

Fees and timing

TimelineConfirm the current municipal review stage after the application is accepted as complete.

FeesConfirm the current Markham building permit fee schedule before filing.

Next steps

Measure the proposed structure accurately
Confirm it is detached and one storey
Confirm whether plumbing is proposed
Check zoning before purchase or construction

Same project, different city

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BuildRules principle

Do not confuse “no permit” with “no rules.”

Zoning, overlays, safety rules and other constraints can still apply.

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