Bentonville Accessory Structure and Shed Regulations
In the City of Bentonville, a building permit is required for the erection, alteration, movement, or improvement of any building or structure, regardless of its size. While the Bentonville Zoning Code does not provide a minimum size exemption for the permit itself, it establishes a 200-square-foot threshold that dictates specific separation distances and easement restrictions for accessory structures.
Permit Requirements in Bentonville
According to the Bentonville Zoning Code, the administration and enforcement of land use are overseen by the community development director. It is considered a violation of the City of Bentonville regulations for any person to erect or move a structure until a building permit has been obtained [Section 301.01]. No building permit may be issued unless the proposed shed or accessory structure conforms to all provisions of the zoning chapter [Section 301.05].
Size and Location Standards
The City of Bentonville limits the physical footprint and placement of accessory structures to ensure they remain subordinate to the main residence or business.
General Size Limitations
For most lots within Bentonville, the total square footage of an individual accessory structure cannot exceed 50% of the total square footage of the primary structure. This restriction is waived for properties larger than two acres [Section 601.01]. Additionally, the cumulative lot coverage of all buildings (the primary structure plus all accessory structures) must not exceed the maximum lot coverage percentage allowed for that specific Zoning District [Section 601.01].
Placement and Separation
Specific thresholds exist for how far a structure must be from other buildings and property lines.
| Feature | Requirement for Structures ≤ 200 Sq. Ft. | Requirement for Structures > 200 Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|
| Separation from Primary Building | No minimum distance specified. | Must be located a minimum of 12 feet from the primary structure [Section 601.01]. |
| Placement in Easements | Allowed if not attached to a permanent foundation; must be easily moveable [Section 601.01]. | Prohibited [Section 601.01]. |
| Front Yard Placement | Prohibited; must be behind the front building line of the primary structure [Section 601.01]. | Prohibited; must be behind the front building line of the primary structure [Section 601.01]. |
Setback Requirements for Accessory Structures
Accessory structures in Bentonville must adhere to minimum distances from property lines based on their size.
| Structure Footprint | Side Setback | Rear Setback |
|---|---|---|
| 720 Square Feet or Less | 7 Feet | 7 Feet |
| Greater than 720 Square Feet | As required by the specific Zoning District | As required by the specific Zoning District |
| Under 200 Sq. Ft. (No Foundation) | 7 Feet | 7 Feet |
Note: In the case of a corner lot, an accessory structure is prohibited from projecting beyond the building line of the primary structure or any existing primary structure on an adjacent lot [Section 601.01].
Architectural Design Standards
In Bentonville residential districts, any accessory structure larger than 200 square feet must feature a façade with an architectural style similar to the primary structure [Section 601.01]. For those located in commercial districts, the structure must meet the design standards for large-scale developments [Section 601.01].
Sections Cited
- Section 201.02 - Definitions Of Terms And Uses
- Section 301.01 - Enforcement
- Section 301.05 - Building Permits
- Section 601.01 - Accessory Structures