Permits · Sheds
When do you need a permit for a shed in WA?
Sheds have one of the clearest permit exemption rules in WA — but there are three conditions, and they all have to be met at the same time. Missing any one means a building permit is required regardless of the other two.
The three-part exemption rule
All three must be true — simultaneously
1Floor area ≤ 10 m² — roughly 3.16 m × 3.16 m. Most workshop sheds (e.g. 6 m × 3 m = 18 m²) automatically trigger the permit requirement.
2Height ≤ 2.4 m — measured to the highest point of the structure, not just the wall. A standard 2.4 m wall + roof pitch can easily exceed this.
3Not attached to any other structure — must be completely freestanding. If it shares a wall with the house or garage, a permit is required regardless of size.
All three must be true — simultaneously. A 9 m² shed that's 2.6 m high needs a permit. A 10 m² shed attached to the garage needs a permit. A 20 m² shed at 2.0 m high needs a permit. There is no partial pass.
The "storage only" classification matters too
The exemption applies specifically to sheds used as non-habitable storage structures (Class 10a). Any shed used as a granny flat, home gym, or workshop with electrical fit-out is a different building class and always requires a permit.
Electrical in sheds
Note: Even if your shed is exempt from a building permit, you still cannot install electrical wiring yourself in WA. All electrical work must be done by a licensed electrician under the Electricity (Licensing) Regulations 1991 (WA). A sub-circuit from your house switchboard typically costs $600–$1,500 depending on cable distance.
Setback rules apply regardless of permit status
Important: Even if your shed is exempt from a building permit, it must still comply with your council's setback requirements under the Residential Design Codes (R-Codes). In most Perth residential zones, outbuildings must be set back at least 900 mm from a side or rear boundary.
Typical shed costs in Perth 2025
- Small kit shed (under 10 m², supply only): $800–$2,500
- Medium workshop (20–30 m², supply and install): $8,000–$18,000
- Large workshop with concrete slab (40–60 m²): $20,000–$45,000
- Permit fee (if required): $150–$400
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Sources
City of Bayswater — Sheds, Pergolas and Outdoor Structures · City of Gosnells — Do I need a permit? · Building Act 2011 (WA) Schedule 4 · NCC 2022 — Class 10a building classification · Electricity (Licensing) Regulations 1991 (WA)