Permitting / Codes
111 Chesterfield St. S • Aiken, SC 29801 • 803-642-7675
City of Aiken Zoning Frequently Asked Questions
Is a permit required to add a shed or storage building to my property? Are there any size restrictions or setback requirements?
Maybe. A shed or storage building (pre-built or built on site) that is larger than 200 square feet requires a building permit. First, please contact the Planning Department at 803-642-7608 to ask about setback requirements for the proposed structure and to check if the property where the shed/storage building is to be placed or built is in an historic or overlay district and could possible require Planning approval before construction. We also recommend that, if applicable, residential property owners check with their Homeowners’ Association for any possible covenant restrictions, such as type or style of storage building required, when planning for a construction project. Please note that contractors must have a valid state license and a current City of Aiken business license to build or place any size pre-built shed/storage building in the city limits.
Is a permit required for the installation of fences?
Maybe. Fences not over 6 feet high do not require a building permit. First, please call the Planning Department at 803-642-7675 to ask if the property to be fenced has setback requirements or zoning restrictions and to check if the property where the fence is to be built is in an historic or overlay district and could possible require Planning approval before construction. We also recommend that, if applicable, residential property owners check with their Homeowners’ Association for any possible covenant restrictions, such as type or style of fencing required, when planning for a fencing project. Please note that contractors must have a valid state license and a current City of Aiken business license to build any size fence in the city limits.
Are there any height restrictions on a detached building I want to add in my yard? Is there a size restriction?
Yes. The ridge of a detached building can’t be higher than the ridge of the house. Also, the total square footage of all accessory buildings can’t be more than 50% of the heated square footage of the primary dwelling. In the case of a detached garage with a bonus room above, both floors count as accessory square footage.
How do I find out what my setbacks are?
Please contact the Planning Department at 803-642-7608 for setback requirements.
Who do I contact about trees on private and/or public property?
Please contact the Planning Department at 803-642-7608.
Who can I talk to regarding Landmark/Historical buildings?
Please call the Planning Department at 803-642-7608.