Scope before arithmetic
Make sure the fee belongs to your project.
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. Even a shed exempt from a building permit must satisfy zoning setbacks. A separate variance may be needed if the proposal does not comply.
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.
Markham lists a new building containing plumbing as permit-required irrespective of size.
The City directs applicants to confirm zoning requirements even when a building permit exemption applies.
Official sources behind this page
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.
Markham lists a new building containing plumbing as permit-required irrespective of size.
The City directs applicants to confirm zoning requirements even when a building permit exemption applies.
For a hypothetical residential deck/accessory structure under 50 m² requiring minor setback relief without change of use, Markham confirmed Residential Small Scale Development Standards (Table 7 item 7.1.2). The City’s 2026 listed fee is $2,942, separate from any building permit or zoning preliminary review fee.
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