Building a 12'x12' shed over a swale in our backyard, is this legal? Will we have to move it?

Question

We live in Ontario, Canada, so any info from Canada would be great....oh yeah, it is about 1' over the swale as we speak.

Answer 1

That depends on the building codes for your particular town and state. Will it have a floor? Ask the town building inspectors office, to be sure you dont run into any trouble. I know for my shed we needed a permit. And it had to be 10 feet from the property line and our house, and electrical wires and any other buildings.

Answer 2

If you are going to be 'finishing' the inside (e.g; using drywall or plywood/panelling), remember to install backing. Generally in sheds you will be installing shelving and hooks, etc. Layout where you will be putting these items while you're framing it and it will save you a lot of hassles. Put your studs no less than 2' on center, but in some places, you may want them closer for your shelving. Studs are cheap and worth putting in a few extra so you have something to screw into later. Using horizontal backing between studs is very helpful, too. Think of that towel rack in the bathroom that keeps coming out of the wall. If you put in backing where such an item is going, you won't have the problem of things falling out. If you are going to be putting very heavy items in this shed, use 2x6 floor joists on 16" centers. Or at least double up your flooring material (plywood). You don't want your floor sagging. If you get a lot of snow where you live, make sure your roof joists are no less than 16" on center. Good Luck!

Answer 3

building 12x12 shed swale backyard legal move

Answer 4

Check with your local building inspector, but off hand I'd say it's illegal.

Answer 5

if it's elevated to where it doesn't impede water flow when a big rain hits, I can't see why anyone would gripe....

Answer 6

it's only legal untill someone finds out...i think ur fine thou