You’ve run out of storage space, and a backyard shed is the right solution to your problem.
Considering building permit restrictions, shed placement options, whether you want to build or buy a shed, and — if you want to buy — whether you prefer a pre-built shed or a custom shed will help you shed shop more efficiently.
Always check to see what zoning codes apply to your area. Rural areas are usually more flexible, but especially for people who live in cities, towns, or subdivisions, there may be restrictions on size, color, and sometimes even style that have to be approved by a council or business official before ordering. In many places, any building bigger than a small garden shed will require a permit, so it's necessary to check with the local government or your subdivision board.
We understand that pulling permits and checking into zoning is something that you would typically never have to do unless you are a contractor or builder. So we've pulled this information to help you with the process and make it less complicated.
Once you obtain your permit, be sure to read it thoroughly as there may be unexpected building limitations listed, and you don't want to miss them. Limitations can include how far a shed should be placed from property lines, how far away a shed should be from a residential building, color restrictions, and potential placement stipulations.
Permit restrictions aside, to pinpoint the best location for a backyard shed on your property, consider how you'll be using it. For instance, if it's being used primarily as a garden shed, keep it close to the garden and a water source. If you plan to store a lawn mower in your shed, make sure the doors can open fully, the ramp can be extended entirely, and the mower can maneuver in and out without restriction.
Additionally, if you plan to use it to store lawn care supplies, tools, seasonal decor, and regularly used equipment (think sports gear, camping items, etc.), keep it close to your house, not in the farthest back corner. Such an out-of-the-way site might look nice, but it's not convenient. Having to run back and forth across the yard every time you need to retrieve a drill is not only annoying, but soon you'll see that items tend NOT to be returned to the "far away" shed.
If you plan to work in your shed, you may want dormers for natural light and windows that can be opened for fresh air. If that's the case, be sure your shed won’t be placed directly under a tree that will prevent light from pouring in and block ventilating breezes.
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Shed prices range vastly. While both built and bought sheds offer storage solutions, longevity and durability vary as construction and materials range from cheap to premium.
If you decide to buy a shed instead of building a kit or creating a DIY shed from scratch, you’ll need to decide between pre-built and custom. While both options can be good, there are key differences that are worth noting. Here are a few.
Whether you want to purchase a DIY shed kit, a pre-built shed, or a custom shed, a quick Google search will produce many results. You can easily find where to buy a kit (e.g., Wayfair.com), a pre-built shed (e.g., local or chain home improvement store), or order a custom shed (e.g., shed manufacturer in your area).
As for Dakota Storage Buildings, we are proud to serve North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, western Wisconsin, northeast Nebraska, and north-central Iowa. See display lot locations.
Many factors go into the right time to buy a storage shed, including availability and weather.
However, regarding wait time and pricing, there are better times than others. For instance, since winter is the off-season for shed buying, many shed retailers become strapped for cash and are willing to offer late winter and early spring buying incentives. Also, many shed sellers offer discounts or clearance prices at the end of their peak shed buying season, usually around the end of September.
At this point, you know that buying a shed will solve your storage problem. Now it's time to figure out specifics, including what size to get, which siding options are easy to maintain, what the price range looks like, and more. Our Shed Buying Workbook is designed to help you with these details to make shed shopping easy and ensure you’re making a good investment that will meet your needs long term.
More helpful storage and shed-related articles.
Life is demanding and full of choices. We’d love to make just one aspect of your life a little easier. That’s why it’s our mission to provide storage solutions you can trust, from sheds and garages to coops and kennels. Customize your storage building with our online 3-D configurator, explore our stock buildings, or find a display location near you. Our team is now serving North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, western Wisconsin, northeast Nebraska, and north-central Iowa. Discover The Dakota Difference.