High, for basic storage sheds. Requires understanding of local zoning, basic construction principles, and code compliance for foundation, framing, and electrical systems if applicable.
Shed installations are generally considered low complexity projects for accessory structures, particularly when non-habitable and under a certain square footage threshold. However, adherence to setback, foundation, structural, and electrical requirements elevates it beyond a simple 'no-permit' project in many instances within DuPage County.
Project Guidelines & Rules
Permits & Zoning
3 Rules
Permit Requirement
IRC R105.1 (Permits required for new construction), consult your local municipality for specific thresholds and requirements (e.g., sheds over 120 sq ft often require permits).
Zoning & Setbacks
Local municipal zoning ordinances govern accessory structure size, height, and setback from property lines and other structures. Review prior to design.
Site Plan Requirement
IRC R106.1.1 (Site plan indicating location, dimensions, and distances to property lines/other structures). Submit to the local building department.
Foundation & Structural Integrity
10 Rules
Frost Depth
IRC R403.1.4.1 (Footings shall extend to a minimum depth of 42 inches below finished grade for DuPage County to protect against frost heave).
Foundation Type
IRC R401.1, R403.1, R506.1 (Foundations such as concrete slab, piers, or treated skids must be appropriate for anticipated loads and soil conditions).
Anchorage to Foundation
IRC R403.1.6 (Anchor bolts or approved strapping required to resist uplift and lateral forces, particularly for larger sheds).
Floor Framing (if elevated)
IRC Chapter 5 (Floor Construction - e.g., joist sizing, spacing, bridging based on span and load).
Wall Framing
IRC Chapter 6 (Wall Construction - e.g., stud spacing, top plates, headers over openings, bracing requirements).
Roof Framing
IRC Chapter 8 (Roof-Ceiling Construction - e.g., rafter/truss sizing, spacing, bracing, connections).
Sheathing & Siding
IRC R703 (Exterior Walls - materials and installation for weather resistance and structural integrity).
Roof Covering
IRC Chapter 9 (Roof Assemblies - e.g., asphalt shingles, metal panels, or other approved materials, installed according to manufacturer specifications and code).
Ground Snow Load
IRC R301.2.1 (Minimum ground snow load of 30 PSF for DuPage County, to be used in roof design calculations).
Wind Design
IRC R301.2.1 (Minimum design wind speed of 115 MPH (3-second gust) for DuPage County, utilizing Exposure C or D as applicable for the site).
Electrical Systems (If Applicable)
8 Rules
Electrical Permit & Inspection
2023 NEC 80.29, local building department requirements (Separate electrical permit and inspections are required for any electrical work).
Disconnecting Means
2023 NEC 225.31, 225.32 (A readily accessible means of disconnecting all ungrounded conductors from the supply is required at the shed).
Wiring Methods & Materials
2023 NEC Chapter 3 (e.g., Underground Feeder (UF) cable for direct burial, or conductors in appropriate conduit for wet/outdoor conditions).
Grounding & Bonding
2023 NEC Article 250 (Proper grounding electrode system and bonding are required, consistent with a separate structure).
Receptacles & Lighting
2023 NEC Article 210, 410 (All 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles in readily accessible locations shall be GFCI protected).
Overcurrent Protection
2023 NEC Article 240 (All conductors must be protected against overcurrent, sized correctly for loads).
Underground Wiring Depth
2023 NEC 300.5 (Minimum cover requirements for underground conductors and cables, varying by wiring method and location).
Protection Against Physical Damage
2023 NEC 300.4 (Wiring methods shall be selected and installed to protect against physical damage).
Plumbing Systems (If Applicable)
3 Rules
Plumbing Permit & Inspection
Illinois Plumbing Code, Section 890.110 (Permits required for any new plumbing installation or alteration), 890.120 (Inspections).
Water Supply & Drainage
Illinois Plumbing Code, Chapters 4, 6, 7 (Requirements for fixture units, pipe sizing, traps, vents, and drainage systems, if any fixtures are installed).
Backflow Prevention
Illinois Plumbing Code, Section 890.1130 (Required for any connection to a potable water supply to prevent contamination).
Site & Environmental Considerations
3 Rules
Drainage & Grading
IRC R401.3 (Site shall be graded to divert surface water away from the shed foundation and adjacent structures).
Erosion Control
Local stormwater management ordinances (Implement best management practices to control erosion during construction).
Fire Separation
IRC R302.1 (Exterior walls of structures located closer than 5 feet to a property line or other buildings may require fire-resistance rated construction).