Frederick County resource
Shed and Demolition Permits in Frederick County
Before a shed goes up or comes down, it is worth knowing what the county asks for. This page sticks to what Frederick County publishes, with links. It is a starting point, not a permit decision.
Before planning the work: confirm current permit requirements and fees with the county or municipality using the linked pages.
When a shed needs a building permit
In unincorporated Frederick County, a building permit is required for a shed of 150 square feet (10 by 15 feet) or larger, even a pre-built shed that is delivered. A shed under 150 square feet may still need a zoning certificate. Source: County FAQ on pre-built sheds (checked October 2026).
If the property is in the City of Frederick or another incorporated town, the county directs you to that municipality for its requirements. Source: County FAQ on pre-built sheds (checked October 2026).
What a demolition permit application asks for
The county's demolition permit information sheet lists these submittal items. Source: Building Permit Information: Demolition (checked October 2026).
- A plot plan, ideally a legal survey, otherwise a legible hand drawing to scale on letter or legal paper. It shows property lines, the house and other structures, any well and septic area, the driveway, the structure being demolished, and known cemeteries or historic and archaeological resources on the site.
- Construction plans are not required to demolish an entire structure. Partial or interior demolition needs one set of plans to scale.
- Photos of every side of the building being demolished.
- Town paperwork first if the property is in an incorporated town.
- Fees are due at application. For residential demolition the July 2026 county sheet lists automation, filing, building and zoning review fees, plus a health review fee that may not be required. The current amounts are on the county sheet linked above.
- Who applies: the property owner or an applicant who meets the county's authorization requirements. Check the county sheet for applicant eligibility and notarized-permission requirements.
How the process runs
Applications go in online through the county's citizen portal (checked October 2026). After intake, fees are posted to your portal account; you can also pay by cash or check at the Treasury drive-thru window, 30 North Market Street, Frederick. Source: Building Permit Information: Demolition (checked October 2026).
If the property is not on its own well or septic and is not in an incorporated town, the application may qualify as a Walk-Through Permit, which is usually reviewed and issued the same day. Otherwise, the initial plan review takes about a week, and other agencies may take longer. Source: Building Permit Information: Demolition (checked October 2026).
Not sure if your teardown needs a permit?
The county's demolition sheet does not list a size cutoff for small structures. Ask before the work starts: the Department of Permits and Inspections number on that sheet is 301-600-2313. Source: Building Permit Information: Demolition (checked October 2026).
Where I come in
I take down sheds, decks, fences and play sets and haul the debris away in the same job. I don't remove anything holding up the house or handle asbestos. Before I quote a teardown, I discuss permit requirements with you so any required approvals are in place before work starts. See light demolition and junk removal.
Get a written price
Call or text 240-315-7030 with the address and a few photos, or use the quote form. The quote is free, usually the same day.
Jay's Property Management LLC, 5738 Jefferson Pike, Frederick, MD 21703. Mon–Fri 9 AM–5 PM. james.king7522@gmail.com