Beginning Farmer & Land Access
Farm Building Permit Guide
A guide to the building permit process for farm structures. It helps farmers learn what local offices need before building a barn, shed, or other structure.
Download free PDF1 page, US Letter, prints clean in black and white
GuideBeginning Farmer & Land AccessFree PDF
The steps on this page
- Contact the county building office
- Ask if agricultural exemptions apply
- Prepare a simple site sketch
- Gather building plans
- Submit the permit application
- Schedule required inspections
- Keep approved plans on file
- Record contact names and dates
How to use this guide
Pin it up in the shop or barn. The numbered steps are a short reminder, and the notes lines are for details specific to your operation.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with eXtension and USDA.
For more in this area, see the farm finance explained. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Jesus Was Born on a Dairy Farm, and agribusiness farm stories.