Residential Accessory Structure Requirements

A guide for all Residential Accessory Structures that are larger than 150 sq. ft., including sheds, gazebos, carports, and other similar construction projects. Following these guidelines will help ensure the application, plans and supporting documentation are complete and sufficient for permit submittal which will ensure a timely review and response. 

General intake requirements 

• Apply online at HillsGovHub
• Residential Miscellaneous - Building
• Recorded certified copy of Notice of Commencement in accordance with Florida Statutes 713.13 (required prior to the first inspection)
• Permits for Homeowners acting as their own contractors must complete an Owner Builder Disclosure Statement 
• If using a Private Provider, provide all required documents per Private Provider Instructions

Site plan requirements

• Provide a site plan drawn to scale. Site plan must include:
• The location of the proposed scope of work and all existing structures on the parcel
• Property boundaries with lot dimensions
• Provide the front, side, and rear yard setbacks (dimensions) from the proposed structure to the property boundary lines
• The site plan must also identify all easements, conservation, and/or wetlands areas and setbacks
• Site plan must indicate: “No trees will be removed in order to construct the proposed improvements on the property. Any tree within an environmentally sensitive area, or any tree 12” or greater in trunk diameter 4.5’ above the ground surface have been removed unless an exempt species as defined in Land Development Code Article 12.01, Definitions.”
• Trees that are 12” or greater will require a permit to be removed. All trees being removed must be indicated in HillsGovHub under Tree Removal. The requirement shall include any tree species type, location of tree, number of trees, and trunk diameter

Building plan review requirements 

Building plans designed in accordance with the current Florida Building Code and digitally signed and sealed by a State of Florida Registered Architect or Engineer; to include the design professionals name, registration number, complete address and phone number OR approved Department of Community Affairs (DCA) plans.

Special design review requirements

Residential Intermodal Shipping Containers, must comply with the ISC Sufficiency Guidelines

Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA)

All properties located within the SFHA shall have full compliance with the requirements of the Hillsborough County Construction and Land Development Code, ASCE 24, the Florida Building Code and all other applicable local, State and Federal regulations that govern the standards set forth within the National Flood Insurance Program; most restrictive shall apply.  

For a complete and detailed technical guide please view the sufficiency guideline for all construction located within the SFHA. 

Additional resources 

For Building and Construction Services assistance, contact Permitting@HCFL.Gov