An Exterior Alteration Application must be submitted for all sheds and outside storage sites. This includes any permanent structure built to house tools and provide extra storage outside the existing house.

The application will most likely be approved if the following criteria are met:

1. Sheds should be located behind the house as close to the house as possible and preferably attached to the house or within privacy fencing where the shed does not extend above the fence. However, if a more desirable location such as the back of any lot in heavily wooded areas is available, the RHAC will give it consideration. Landscape screening may be required (see guideline on Screening).

2. Material shall be the same as the house (i.e., wood for wood siding houses, aluminum for aluminum siding houses) and of the same quality and color. If the house is restyled, resided or paint color change is made, the shed must match. Decorative embellishments (e.g., eagles, etc.) typically will not be approved;

3. Size should be based on lot size, and conform to Howard County Building Codes, and be in reasonable proportion to the house and/or fenced area.

4. Townhouse sheds will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Application Requirements:

Submit a site (plat) plan which shows the relationship of the shed to the house and property lines, a statement as to the architectural style of the house/townhouse, a list of materials to be used. Include a description of the color along with all color samples (i.e., shed, house and trim). In addition, a detailed drawing of the shed including elevation drawings, dimensions, style and location of door(s) must be included. Proposed landscape screening, if applicable, must be submitted (see guideline on Screening). The shed must be a sturdy, permanently anchored structure, which will be maintained.

NOTE: Townhouse and condominium associations may have further restrictions on sheds, so please check with your local association. The most restrictive guidelines shall apply.