Barndominiums are widely accepted across most counties.
The Bureau of Construction Codes (BCC) within the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs administers the state building code. Local jurisdictions may be designated as enforcing agencies.
Primary Code
Michigan Building Code / Michigan Residential Code
Code Version
2015 IBC / 2015 IRC with MI amendments
Adoption Level
Statewide
Statewide Enforcement
Yes
State provides plan review services for jurisdictions without local enforcement. Rural areas processed through state regional offices.
Residential
Required
Commercial
Required
Agricultural
Not Required
Size threshold: structures under 200 sq ft may be exempt.
Agricultural buildings are specifically exempt from the requirement to obtain a building permit per Michigan Building Code. The building must be incidental to agricultural use and not used for retail trade.
Accessory structures under 200 sq ft typically exempt.
Lake-effect snow creates extremely high snow loads in the Upper Peninsula and western lower Michigan. Snow loads vary dramatically by location.
Wind Load
90–115 mph
moderate zone
Snow Load
30–80+ psf
Seismic
A–B
Category
Flood
FEMA Regulated
Energy Code
IECC
Version
2015 IECC
Energy code enforced statewide.
License Type
Residential Builder license
Michigan requires a Residential Builder license for residential construction. Commercial builders need appropriate licensing.
Front
25–35 ft
Side
5–15 ft
Rear
15–25 ft
Varies by township and county zoning.
Frost depth 42 inches. Basements are standard in residential construction.
Popular statewide. Standard permitting process.
Strong agricultural exemption from building permits. Michigan Farm Bureau actively supports this exemption.
Growing popularity in northern and western Michigan. Good acceptance in most rural areas.
Standard permit requirements. Heated garages need insulation per energy code.
Full state building code compliance required.
HOAs present in suburban developments near Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Lansing. Northern Michigan and UP have very few HOA restrictions.
Flood zones along the Great Lakes shoreline and major rivers.
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.
