Before you pick a size or a color, make sure you can put a shed where you want it. Most of the surprises we see around Wilmington aren't about the building. They're about a county rule or an HOA approval that got skipped.
I'm Anthony with Port City Sheds. Jamie Policz and I build sheds in New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick Counties. This is general guidance from doing that work, not legal advice. Rules change, so always confirm with your county, town, or HOA for your address.
The short version
- Bigger than 12x12: In New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick Counties, any shed larger than 12x12 needs a building permit.
- 12x12 and under: Placement rules like setbacks still apply. Check what your county or town wants for your address.
- HOA: If you have one, it often has its own rules on size, color, and where the shed can go.
- Do it first: Get your answers before build day, not after.
Our standard sizes and permits
Our standard line is the Premium Gable in 10x10, 10x12 and 12x12. All three are at or under the 12x12 size where a building permit kicks in. That keeps things simpler for a lot of homeowners.
Simpler isn't the same as "nothing to check," though. Your lot may have setbacks, easements, or neighborhood rules that decide where the shed can sit. Those apply no matter the size.
Going bigger than 12x12
If you need more room, like a 10x16, 12x20, or a larger building on a slab, a building permit is part of the job.
We can take care of that for you. Our permit service is $1,450 and covers most of the drawings, documents, and communication with the county. As a licensed general contractor (GC LIC #63008), we've built large permitted sheds on concrete slabs.
Larger custom work, with permits, foundations, and detailed material choices, starts with an on-site consultation and design quote. That has a non-refundable $785 design and consultation fee. You'll find sizes and details on our Custom Builds page.
What to ask your county or town
Call your county planning or zoning office with your address and the shed size you want. Ask:
- Do I need a zoning or building permit for this size?
- What are the setbacks from my property lines?
- Are there easements on my lot where I can't build?
- Is my address inside a city or town that has its own rules?
- How long does review usually take?
Write down who you talked to and the date. If you're in the City of Wilmington or another town, there may be steps in addition to the county's. Don't assume it's county only.
HOA and architectural review
HOA approval and county rules are separate. Passing one doesn't cover the other.
If you're in a neighborhood with covenants, read them, then ask the management company or architectural committee in writing:
- Largest shed size and height allowed
- Allowed siding, colors, and roof
- Setbacks beyond the county's
- Whether they want a drawing or a photo of a similar shed
- How long approval takes
A simple drawing goes a long way. You can build your shed in our 3D designer and use that picture with your request. Our photos page has finished sheds you can show them too.
A simple order of steps
- Check HOA rules and get written approval if required
- Call your county (and town, if it applies) with your address and size
- Pick the spot inside what's allowed
- Order your shed and get a formal quote
- Lock in your build day
- Keep copies of approvals and permits
If you're comparing builders, ask who helps with this. Some leave it all to you. That's fine if you know it going in.
Why sort it out now
We only take 1–2 site builds a week, and we're sequencing builds between the holidays right now. HOA committees and county offices take time, and they slow down around the holidays too. Get the paperwork moving now and you'll be ready when your slot opens.
More on timing in why ordering a shed in fall or winter makes sense.
Please verify
This article is based on how we see projects go in our area and on what's posted on our site. It's not legal, zoning, or permitting advice. Requirements can change and can vary by address. Always confirm with New Hanover, Pender, or Brunswick County, your town, and your HOA.
Not sure who to call?
Tell us your address and the size you're thinking about, and we'll help you figure out what to ask. Reach us on the contact page or call or text me at (910) 800-0897.
Thanks!
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