Outbuildings range from small sheds to large post-frame (pole) barns. Size and use matter. In Wyandotte County's residential areas, barns and garages are capped at 1,000 square feet and usually need materials that look residential, while agricultural areas allow larger barns tied to the farm use.

Storing an RV or boat for yourself is different from running a storage business. Miami County, KS lists boat and RV storage and contractor's shops among uses that are typically not allowed in residential zoning.

• Ask how the building was permitted and what it was approved for.
• Check if the lot has room and setbacks for a future building.

Sources: Unified Government Planning FAQs · Miami County Planning FAQ

Related city guides: Kansas City, KS · Paola

Even when the county allows a shop, an HOA or deed restriction might not. Read the covenants before you write an offer, and ask the HOA in writing if anything is unclear. Platte County, for one, requires HOA approval or covenants that allow farm animals before it will permit them in some districts, which shows how much these documents can matter.

• Limits on detached buildings, size, height or materials
• Rules on parking RVs, boats, trailers or work trucks
• Architectural review before you build
• Fence and driveway rules
• Easements that block where a building can go

Sources: Platte County Zoning Order · Miami County Planning FAQ

Related city guides: Platte City · Paola

Bring this list when you tour a home with a shop or pole barn.

• Power: amp rating of the service, panel location and whether 240-volt outlets are in place. Cass County's permit application asks for the electrical service rating.
• Insulation and heat: check walls and ceiling, and the type of heater or HVAC.
• Door height and width: measure overhead doors against your RV, boat or trailer. In Cass County, post-frame openings over 16 feet wide need engineered plans.
• Concrete: slab thickness, cracks and floor drains. Cass County says floor drains must drain to daylight.
• Plumbing: a bathroom or sink in the shop may need a septic permit. Cass County requires one if plumbing fixtures are added.
• Permits: ask for permits and final inspections for the building.
• Home business zoning: rules vary. Clay County allows home occupations with a permit, up to 1,000 sq ft of an accessory building, no non-resident employees, and no large trucks over 1.5 tons. Platte County's definition rules out metal and auto repair shops as home occupations.
• Talk to your county and a CPA or attorney before running a business from the property.

Sources: Cass County Residential Accessory Building Application · Clay County Land Development Code · Platte County Zoning Order

Related city guides: Harrisonville · Liberty · Platte City

Many homes with shops sit on larger lots. Start with our 1+ acre search or our ranch home search, and tell us the size and door height you need.

Sources: Kansas City Metro Homes on 1+ Acres · Kansas City Metro Ranch Homes