Frequently Asked Questions

Non-building structures include structures like sheds, decks, fences and pools. These structures do not necessarily follow the traditional building permit process and may not require a building permit. There are different requirements for building or installing sheds, decks, fences and pools. These may vary depending on your particular zoning district such as Residential A, AA, B, or C. Following the code requirements for these structures ensures that the safety and property rights of Town residents while also helping to maintain the character of our neighborhoods. See the Rules for Sheds, Decks, Fences and Pools

Sheds not exceeding 100 square feet and 10 feet in height do not require a Building Permit as long as the setback requirements as set forth for the given zone are met. There shall be a maximum of two sheds per lot. All sheds must meet lot area occupancy requirements. Set backs for under 100 square foot sheds include:

• Zone A and AA - 2 feet from the side and rear property lines and 50 feet from the front property line
• Zone B and C - 2 feet from the side and rear property lines, 40 feet from the front property line

All sheds must meet building area requirements or will be required to go before the Zoning Board of Appeals for a variance. See the Rules for Sheds, Decks, Fences and Pools

Sheds larger that 100 square feet require a Building Permit and must meet setback areas set forth for the given zone. Setbacks for these sheds include:

• Zone A and AA -10 feet from the side and rear property line and 50 feet from the front property line
• Zone B - 8 feet from the side and rear property line and 40 feet from the front property line
• Zone C - 6 feet from the side and rear property line and 40 feet from the front property line

All sheds must meet building area requirements or will be required to go before the Zoning Board of Appeals for a variance. See the Rules for Sheds, Decks, Fences and Pools

Decks higher than 18 inches and lower than 5 feet require a Building Permit and must meet the following setbacks:

• Zone A and AA - 10 feet from the side and rear property lines, 50 feet from the front property line
• Zone B - 8 feet from the side and rear property lines, 40 feet from the front property line
• Zone C - 6 feet from the side and rear property lines, 40 feet from the front property line

Decks higher than 5 feet, enclosed decks and decks with a roof higher than 12 feet are considered additions to the main structure and require a Building Permit. Contact the Building Division for help in applying for these. All decks must meet building area requirements or will be required to go before the Zoning Board of Appeals for a variance, as will any construction of a deck in a front yard. See the Rules for Sheds, Decks, Fences and Pools

Construction of a fence does not require a Building Permit if it complies with the provisions of the code for all zones as follows:

• Maximum height allowance of 6 feet from the front of the house (structure) to the rear yard
• Maximum height allowance of 4 feet in the front yard from the start of the house or structure
• Maximum height allowance of 3 feet for all solid fences constructed on either side of a driveway and/or within 10 feet of an entrance/exit to a driveway so as to ensure proper visibility
• Maximum height allowance of 3 feet for a corner lot within 20 feet of the corner or intersection
• All new fence installations must have the good side facing out

For fences falling outside of these requirements, please contact the Building Division. See the Rules for Sheds, Decks, Fences and Pools

Construction of a swimming pool (in-ground or above) requires a Building Permit. All pools must meet lot area requirements and the following minimum setbacks:

• Zone A and AA - 6 feet from the side and rear property lines, 50 feet from the front property line
• Zone B and C - 6 feet from the side and rear property lines, 40 feet from the front property line

A Building Permit application with surveys and plans must be submitted to the Building Division for review and must comply with the following codes:

• All electrical devices must be equipped with a ground fault interrupter and approved by a fire underwriter
• All pools must be enclosed by a fence, 4 foot or higher, that has a self-closing and self-locking gate
• All pools must have an audible alarm
• Filter and drainage systems must be contained on the property
• Pools cannot be constructed in a front yard
• Child-proof safety locks must be installed on all sliding doors that access the pool area

See the Rules for Sheds, Decks, Fences and Pools