Shedding the red tape

WAUPACA – A recent city council vote will help homeowners save money on the addition of a garden shed.
It was voted June 16 that a building permit will no longer be required for a garden shed that is under 150 square feet and comprised of weather-resistant materials or prefabricated sheds.
The shed must also be properly anchored to the ground as well.
Benefits of eliminating the permit fee were discussed at the meeting and include financial savings and a streamlined approval process.
Mayor Brian Smith said this change will help residents quickly get their structure approved and on site without any additional cost.

Although the building permit could be waived for structures that fall within the ordinance guidelines, the zoning permit would not be.
Justin Berrens, Director of Public Works, said the zoning department would still need to review setbacks and where a shed can sit on a particular lot.
The zoning permit is essential to ensure compliance with local zoning codes; it also helps the zoning department keep track of where structures are on lots.
Being that garden sheds are typically easy to place and do not require extra services like plumbing and electrical, it reduces the need for extra steps.
Berrens said at the June 3 meeting, by eliminating the permit step, getting approved for a garden shed on your property could be as simple as a conversation with the building inspector.
The ordinance was passed unanimously at the June 16 meeting.