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What Size Shed Do I Need? A Practical Sizing Guide
One of the most common shed regrets is buying one too small. Buy too big, though, and you may lose yard space or need a permit. This guide walks through how to size a shed for what you actually plan to store, with real dimensions from the cedar shed kits we carry.
Step 1: List What You'll Store
Write down everything that will go in the shed today, then add room for what you'll buy in the next few years. A good rule of thumb is to add 20–30% for growth and walking space. Measure large items like a riding mower, wheelbarrow or bikes so you know the door width and floor area you need.
Shed Sizes at a Glance
| Size | Best for | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 4×2 to 6×3 | Garden tools, BBQ gear, trash bins | 4×2 Garden Chalet (36 cu ft), Oscar garbage can shed (77 cu ft) |
| 6×4 to 8×4 | Tools, push mower, patio cushions; fits along a fence | SpaceSaver 8×4 lean-to (190 cu ft) |
| 12×4 | Bikes, grills and long tools in a narrow side yard | GardenSaver 12×4 with 60" sliding doors (279 cu ft) |
| 6×6 to 8×8 | Mower plus tools, or a small potting shed | 8×8 Gardener (379 cu ft), 8×8 Sunshed with built-in workbench |
| 8×12 | Lawn equipment and seasonal storage, or a full potting shed | 8×12 SpaceMaster (569 cu ft) |
| 12×12 to 12×16 | Workshop, riding equipment, or storage plus a work area | 12×16 SpaceMaster (1,248 cu ft, 63" double doors) |
Step 2: Check Door Width and Height
Floor space is only half the story. A 12×16 shed is no help if your mower won't fit through the door. Single doors on our cedar sheds are typically 31.5" wide, while double doors open up to 62–63". If you'll roll equipment in and out, add a cedar shed ramp.
Step 3: Think About Shape, Not Just Size
- Lean-to sheds sit flat against a fence or house wall, which is perfect for narrow side yards.
- Sliding-door sheds need no door-swing clearance.
- Sheds with windows and skylights, like the Sunshed, double as greenhouse or potting sheds.
Step 4: Check Permits and Setbacks
Many cities let you build small accessory sheds without a permit, often under 120 square feet, but limits and setbacks from property lines vary. An 8×12 shed is 96 sq ft; a 12×12 is 144 sq ft. Check with your city or HOA before you order, and see our permit guide.
Step 5: Use Wall Space
Vertical storage can make a smaller shed feel much bigger. A set of 8 ft cedar shed shelves gets bins, pots and small tools off the floor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size shed fits a riding mower?
Plan for at least an 8×12 with wide double doors, and measure your mower's width, including the deck, against the door opening.
What's the most popular shed size?
8×8 and 8×12 sheds are the most versatile. They hold a mower, tools and seasonal gear without taking over the yard.
Is it better to go one size bigger?
Usually, yes, as long as it fits your yard and local permit limits. Most people fill a shed faster than they expect.