Some counties welcome barndominiums, but metro and suburban areas may restrict them.
Building code adoption and enforcement is handled at the county and municipal level. Delaware only has three counties, making the landscape relatively simple to navigate.
Primary Code
IBC / IRC
Code Version
Varies by jurisdiction (2015–2018 IBC)
Adoption Level
Local Only
Statewide Enforcement
No
Kent and Sussex counties are the primary building departments for southern Delaware.
Residential
Required
Commercial
Required
Agricultural
Not Required
Size threshold: structures under 200 sq ft may be exempt.
Agricultural buildings on qualifying farmland may be exempt from building permits in some jurisdictions. Sussex County has agricultural exemptions.
Accessory structures under 200 sq ft may be exempt from building permits.
Coastal areas have higher wind requirements. Delaware Bay and Atlantic coast exposure increases wind design loads.
Wind Load
110–140 mph
high zone
Snow Load
15–25 psf
Seismic
A–B
Category
Flood
FEMA Regulated
Energy Code
IECC
Version
2018 IECC
Energy code enforcement varies by jurisdiction.
License Type
No state license required
Delaware does not require a state contractor license. Some municipalities require local contractor registration.
Front
25–35 ft
Side
10–15 ft
Rear
15–25 ft
Setbacks vary by county and zone.
Sandy soils in southern Delaware. Clay soils in northern Delaware. Foundation design must account for local soil conditions.
Permits required in most areas. Rural Sussex County more flexible.
Agricultural exemptions available in Sussex County for bona fide farm operations.
Growing interest in Sussex County. Acceptance varies by jurisdiction.
Standard permit requirements in most areas.
Full IBC compliance required.
HOAs are common in New Castle County suburban developments. Southern Delaware (Sussex County) has more unrestricted rural land.
Significant flood zones along Delaware Bay, Atlantic coast, and inland rivers. Flood zone construction requirements are strictly enforced.
Verify the information above directly from these official sources. Regulations change — always confirm with your local building department before starting construction.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Building codes, permit requirements, and zoning regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local building department, planning office, or a licensed professional before starting construction. Homestead Steel Structures & Design is not a legal authority on building codes or zoning regulations. Last updated February 2026.
