Author: Lisa Smith
Choosing the right shed size is more than just picking a structure that fits your outdoor space. It's about ensuring it meets your storage needs, complies with local regulations, and complements your property's aesthetics. This guide will help you determine the ideal shed size for your requirements, with a focus on New Zealand-specific considerations.
Assess Your Needs
Before deciding on a shed size, consider:
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Purpose: Is it for storing gardening tools, housing a workshop, firewood or creating a hobby space?
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Inventory: List items you plan to store to estimate the required space needed.
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Future Use: Anticipate any future storage needs to avoid outgrowing your shed quickly.
It's common to underestimate storage needs. A general recommendation is to choose a shed slightly larger than your current requirements to accommodate future additions, as well as have space to stack items and have enough ventilation to avoid mould and mildew buildup. A relocatable shed, as offered by Outpost Buildings allows your shed's purpose to adapt to your ever changing needs.
Understand Common Shed Sizes
Sheds typically fall into four categories:
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Small (up to 10m²): Ideal for storing hand tools, lawnmowers, bicycles and boxes. Our Small Backyard Shed measures 2.4m x 1.9m x 2.5m high.
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Medium (10m² - 20m²): Suitable for larger equipment, workbenches, or as a small workshop. Our Backyard Tool Shed measures 3.6m x 1.9m x 2.5m high.
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Large (20m² - 30m²): Can accommodate multiple functions, including storage and workspace. Our Settler Garden Shed measures 4.0m x 2.5m x 2.9m high.
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Extra Large (more than 30m²): A more spacious option that will require council consent. These are great for large equipment storage, workshops, sleepouts, offices or a hobbies room. Our Large Upland Garden Shed measures 5.8m x 3.0m x 2.5m high.
Built to last, Outpost Buildings has a wide variety of shed sizes to cater for your needs. Check out our full collection to find your ideal shed.
New Zealand Building Regulations
In New Zealand, building regulations for sheds are governed by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE). A kitset shed such as those offered by Outpost Buildings has been designed to meet the NZ Building regulations. While council consent is not required for a large range of our sheds, there are key areas that need consideration.
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Exemptions: Single-storey detached buildings not exceeding 30m² typically do not require a building consent, provided they meet specific criteria as outlined in our guide on shed building consents.
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Height Restrictions: The shed must not exceed 3.5 meters in height above the floor level.
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Proximity to Boundaries: If the shed is close to a boundary, you may need to obtain written approval from your neighbours or apply for a Deemed Permitted Boundary Activity. For more information see our article on the regulations regarding shed proximity to the boundary.
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Electrical & Plumbing work: For buildings that require electrical wiring or plumbing, you will need to use a professional and this may require other consents.
For larger projects, it is a good idea to check with your local council for specific requirements and regulations in your area.
Consider Site Constraints
When planning your shed:
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Access: Ensure there's sufficient space around the shed for maintenance and access.
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Terrain: Level ground is ideal. Sloped areas may require additional foundation work.
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Sunlight and Drainage: Position the shed to avoid excessive moisture and ensure good drainage.
A relocatable shed such as those offered by Outpost Buildings allows you to move the shed around your property depending on the current use case and depending on the ground conditions. This can be especially important in the wetter, winter months.
Conclusion
Selecting the appropriate shed size involves balancing your storage needs, regulatory requirements, and property space and conditions. By thoroughly assessing your requirements and consulting local regulations, you can ensure your shed serves its purpose effectively for years to come.
Outpost Buildings have 20 years of experience helping people find the right shed for their needs. Our NZ made sheds are constructed from extra heavy duty, high quality NZ timber. This makes them incredibly durable against the wear and tear that’s part and parcel of lifestyle and rural life. Backed by our Built Touch Guarantee. Get in touch with us to discuss your shed requirements.
