Do You Need a Permit for a Pole Barn in Marion County?

Updated Nov 4, 2026 · 3 min read

Short answer

Usually, yes. Marion County wants a building permit for most barns and accessory buildings. A nonresidential farm building on real agricultural land may qualify for an exemption under Florida Statute 604.50. The county reviews that request, and flood rules still apply.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Always check with Marion County before you build. The company you hire should know the steps too.

The farm-building exemption (Fla. Stat. 604.50)

Florida law has a special rule for farm buildings. Under Florida Statute 604.50, a nonresidential farm building on agricultural land is exempt from the Florida Building Code and from county building codes and fees.

That sounds simple, but there are limits:

• It covers farm buildings, not homes. A barn you live in, or a garage for your house, is a different story.
• The land has to be real agricultural land.
• Floodplain rules still apply, even when the building rules don't.
• Marion County reviews the request. Your barn may qualify. It isn't automatic.

So ask the county early. Bring a simple plan of what you want to build and how you will use it.

Fees

We aren't listing fee amounts yet. We are still checking the county's current fee schedule. Ask Marion County for today's fee before you plan your budget. See what a pole barn costs in Ocala for the costs we can pin down.

Setbacks and small sheds

A setback is how far a building has to sit from your property line. Small buildings have a special rule. Under Marion County Land Development Code 4.3.27, sheds, storage buildings and carports up to 12 feet by 12 feet can get a side or rear setback exemption. You need a notarized agreement from your neighbor. This applies on residential lots, or on agricultural lots under 1 acre.

Most pole barns are bigger than 12 by 12. So most will need to meet the normal setbacks.

City of Ocala vs. unincorporated county

If your land is inside Ocala city limits, the City of Ocala handles your permit, not the county. If you are outside city limits, it's Marion County. Not sure? Check your property record or ask the county first.

FAQ

Do I need a permit for a pole barn in Marion County?

Usually, yes. Marion County wants a building permit for most barns and accessory buildings. A nonresidential farm building on real agricultural land may qualify for an exemption under Florida Statute 604.50.

What is the farm building exemption in Florida?

Florida Statute 604.50 says a nonresidential farm building on agricultural land is exempt from the Florida Building Code and county building codes and fees. Floodplain rules still apply, and the county reviews each request.

Can I put a small shed close to my property line?

Maybe. Marion County's Land Development Code 4.3.27 lets sheds, storage buildings and carports up to 12 by 12 feet get a side or rear setback exemption with a notarized neighbor agreement, on residential lots or agricultural lots under 1 acre.