If you’re planning to build a new pole barn, it’s wise to start by learning about pole barn permit requirements. It may seem like a pile of mundane paperwork, but permits are there to protect your investment and make sure your barn adheres to local regulations. Skipping this step can cause more trouble than it’s worth.

Getting your permit usually comes down to a few steps, which include doing your research, gathering the right documents, and turning in your application. Along the way, you’ll want to pay attention to common restrictions, additional permits, and the different factors that can affect the cost. A little preparation now will keep your project on solid footing.

What Are Pole Barn Permits and Why Are They Important?

A pole barn permit is official approval from your local government that allows you to begin construction on your property. The permit process exists to confirm that your project follows safety guidelines. Pole barn permit requirements protect not only your investment but also the environment and nearby properties.

Without this permit, you could face fines or even be forced to take down your structure. That is a stressful and expensive problem to deal with after you have already invested your time and money.

In most areas, permits are required for barns larger than 200 square feet or for buildings that will be used for residential or commercial purposes. Other types of barns may have fewer restrictions, but it is always best to check with your local office before you begin.

Step to Get Your Pole Barn Permit

Starting a new project begins with securing the right permit.

1. Do Your Research

Every town and county has its own set of rules for pole barns. The best first step is to give your local building department or zoning office a call. They can tell you exactly what paperwork and standards apply in your neck of the woods. This will save you time and keep you from running into any surprises later on.

2. Prepare Any Required Documentation

Once you know what’s needed, start pulling together the documents. You’ll likely need a site plan that shows where your barn will sit, engineered drawings for the structure, and proof that you own the land. Having all this ready before you file your application keeps things moving smoothly.

3. Submit Your Application

When your documents are in order, it’s time to hand them in along with the permit fee. Depending on where you live and the type of structure, this can range anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

4. Address Clarifications or Revisions

Sometimes the building office will come back with questions or suggest small changes. Don’t let this discourage you. Answer quickly, adjust what needs adjusting, and keep the process moving. It’s all part of making sure your barn will stand strong for years to come.

5. Schedule Inspections

Your permit will likely require inspections at key stages, such as after the foundation has been installed or the framing has been completed. Schedule these on time and you’ll avoid delays. Each inspection is a “checkpoint” to make sure everything is in order and built to code.

Pre-Purchasing Building Plans

At DIY Pole Barns, we fully understand that the permitting process can be daunting and overwhelming. That’s why we offer pre-purchasing building plans to make this whole process easier for you.

This is what we can offer you:

Blueprints fully designed by professionals and tailored for pole barn construction specifically.
The ability to choose between non-stamped plans and stamped plans reviewed by licensed engineers.

The difference between these is that our non-stamped plans are more suitable for areas without strict engineering requirements, while our stamped plans are more suitable for areas with stricter requirements.

Our plans allow you to:

Submit plans earlier in the process.
Ensure that your plans comply with local regulations before spending on materials.
Save headaches and costly surprises down the line by knowing what’s required beforehand.

Learn more about the features of our pole barn kits.

Additional Considerations

There are a few additional factors you’ll want to keep in mind before building your barn.

Types of Code Regulations

Several different kinds of rules can shape what you’re allowed to build and how you build it.

Zoning Regulations – Zoning determines how land can be used in a particular area. It’s the reason you don’t see a factory in the middle of a quiet neighborhood. Zoning may also set limits on certain details, like the maximum height of your building. I suggest visiting your local zoning board during your initial research.

Covenants – These are extra rules that go beyond zoning regulations. Even if you know the basics from owning your home, it’s worth rereading the covenant to see if there are limits on accessory buildings. If something isn’t clear, ask your Homeowners Association (HOA) directly.

Building Codes – Every pole barn needs to meet building codes, and this is especially important for commercial use. These codes are in place to make sure your structure is safe to occupy and is not a hazard to public health. The details vary from one community to another, so your local building official is the best source for what applies in your area.

Factors That Affect Permitting Costs

The price of a permit isn’t the same for everyone, and it depends on a few important details about your project.

Building size (square footage)
Building segment
Jurisdiction (county or state)

Cost ranges:

Agricultural pole barns: $0 to $2,000
Residential pole barns: $50 to $1,000
Horse barns: $50 to $3,000
Commercial pole barns: $1,000 to $100,000

Keep in mind that these figures are averages to help you create a more realistic budget. Your exact cost will depend on your location and the specifics of your project.

Common Restrictions and Requirements

Pole barn permits are designed to make sure your building follows a few important safety regulations.

Snow and Wind Load Capacity: Your barn must be engineered to handle the weight of snow and the force of local winds.
Foundation Depth: Posts need to be set at the correct depth to meet stability standards in your area.
Property Setbacks: Most areas require a certain distance between your barn and property lines, roads, or other structures.
Building Size: Some areas may limit the overall height or square footage of your barn based on zoning laws and property type.

Additional Permits

Besides the main building permit, you might find yourself needing a few extra approvals. Things like putting in a driveway, hooking up to utilities, drilling a well, or installing a septic system can each require their own paperwork. Some areas may even limit construction to certain times of year.

Checking these requirements in advance will save you last-minute headaches and keep your project moving smoothly.

Exemptions

Believe it or not, not every place asks for a building permit. In rural areas or for certain farm-related structures, this is especially true, and you might be able to skip a few of the usual hoops. Just don’t get too carried away. There are still rules that might apply, and it’s smart to double-check before you start digging.

Things are changing, though. Safety concerns, environmental regulations, and updated zoning laws are forcing certain areas to be more strict when it comes to pole barn permits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions folks have when it comes to pole barn permits.

Can You Build a Pole Barn Without a Permit?

That really depends on where you live and what kind of building you’re planning. Some rural areas or certain agricultural structures might not need a permit, but it’s always worth checking before you start. A quick call to your local building office can save a lot of headaches.

What’s the Biggest Pole Barn You Can Build Without a Permit?

Most places require a permit once your pole barn reaches a certain size, usually around 200 square feet, or if it’s meant for residential or commercial use.

How Much Does a Pole Barn Permit Cost?

Costs can vary quite a bit depending on your building type:

Agricultural pole barns: $0 to $2,000
Residential pole barns: $50 to $1,000
Horse barns: $50 to $3,000
Commercial pole barns: $1,000 to $100,000

Final Thoughts

Bringing it all together, getting a pole barn permit doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. From checking local rules and gathering your documents to understanding costs, restrictions, and possible exemptions, a little planning goes a long way.

At DIY Pole Barns, we offer professionally designed pre-purchase plans made just for pole barn construction. These plans are created for permit applications and include all the structural details you need to meet local codes, no matter where you’re building.

Reach out today, and let’s get your project on solid ground.

—Albert