Lynden is a charming agricultural city in northern Whatcom County known for its Dutch heritage and rural character. Accessory structures are capped at 12 feet in height, and the setback rules split based on whether you need a permit. Small sheds that don't require a permit (under 120 sq ft per state code) only need a 3-foot setback from side or rear property lines. If your shed requires a permit, that jumps to 5 feet — including along alleys. Here's what the Lynden zoning code says.
| Shed Permit Rules | City of Lynden |
|---|---|
| Max Shed Size (No Permit) | 120 sq ft (per WAC 51-16-080) |
| Max Shed Height (Overall) | 12 ft (except detached garages) |
| Setbacks — Permit-Exempt Sheds | 3 ft from side/rear property lines |
| Setbacks — Permitted Structures | 5 ft from side/rear (including alleys) |
| Setbacks (Front) | Not permitted in front yards |
“The maximum height for all accessory structures shall be twelve feet, except for detached garages.”
LMC Title 19 — Accessory Structure Height →
“Structures which do not require a building permit per Chapter 15.04 must be setback a minimum of three feet to the side or rear property line. A detached accessory structure or tool shed, which requires a building permit per Chapter 15.04, may not be built closer than five feet to the side or rear property line including property lines abutting alleys.”
LMC Title 19 — Accessory Structure Setbacks →
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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