Building a Shed in Burlington? Here's What You Need to Know

Burlington sits in the heart of the Skagit Valley adjacent to Mount Vernon and is a growing retail and residential hub. The city adopts the state building code, which exempts one-story accessory structures under 200 square feet from building permits. Burlington recently updated its zoning code with mixed-use residential zones — setback and height requirements depend on your specific zone. Contact Development Services to confirm what applies to your property.

Building Codes & Permits in Burlington

Shed Permit RulesCity of Burlington
Max Shed Size (No Permit)200 sq ft (per IRC as adopted)
Max Shed Height (Overall)Per zoning district — contact Development Services
Setbacks (Side/Rear)Per zoning district — check BMC Title 17
Setbacks (Front)Per zoning district

Burlington recently restructured its zoning code with MUR (Mixed Use Residential) zones. Setback and height requirements vary by district.

Even exempt structures must meet all zoning setback requirements.

What You Need to Know

  • 200 sq ft exempt: Burlington adopts the IRC, which exempts one-story detached accessory structures under 200 sq ft from building permits. Must be non-habitable and comply with all setback requirements.
  • Zone-dependent standards (BMC Title 17): Burlington's zoning code was recently restructured with MUR-1 (Mixed Use Residential) and other zones. Height and setback requirements vary by district — check your zone.
  • 10 ft separation (MUR-1): In the MUR-1 zone, accessory structures have a 10-foot setback requirement from the primary structure.
  • Outside city limits? If your property is in unincorporated Skagit County rather than within Burlington city limits, Skagit County rules apply instead.
  • Utilities: Even if the structure is exempt, any electrical or plumbing work requires a separate trade permit.

Have questions about permits or zoning? We don't have all the answers, but we deal with this stuff regularly and can usually help you figure it out. Reach out with your address and we'll point you in the right direction.

Building codes and permit requirements are subject to change. Contact your local building department to verify current regulations before beginning your project.

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