Virginia's Trusted Shed Dealer
Workshop Sheds in Five Forks, Virginia
Why Five Forks Homeowners Choose Workshops
Foundation prep on Coastal Plain sandy loam typically requires a properly graded gravel pad to prevent shifting and moisture problems.
Space. With suburban lots, typically a quarter to half an acre in planned communities, most Five Forks homeowners fit a 12×20 or 12×24 workshop comfortably in the backyard. Tighter lots work well with a 12×20 — still enough room for a table saw, workbench, and organized wall storage. Larger properties can go 14×32 or bigger for separate machining and assembly zones.
Permits. Virginia exempts one-story accessory structures under 256 square feet from building permits — making our 12×20 (240 sq ft) the most popular workshop size. Structures under 256 square feet are exempt from building permits, but a zoning permit is still required. Setbacks are 10 feet on the side, with rear setbacks of 25 feet in R-1 and 10 feet in R-2 and R-5 districts. For specifics on your lot, reach out to James City County Building Safety & Permits ((757) 253-6625).
In the Williamsburg area with many HOA-governed communities. The Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act applies.
Workshop Configurations
Heavy-Duty Floor System
Workshop-grade floors use 2×6 or 2×8 pressure-treated joists on 12-inch centers with 3/4-inch AdvanTech decking. No bounce, no flex — even under a 600-pound table saw.
7 to 8-Foot Sidewalls
Higher walls mean room for overhead dust collection ductwork, vertical tool storage, standard residential doors, and loft storage for seasonal items.
Dual Door Configuration
6-foot double doors for moving sheet goods and equipment, plus a 36-inch personnel door for daily entry without dumping all your heat or AC.
10x16
160 sq ft
A 160 sq ft workspace for a dedicated workbench, power tools, and organized storage. The perfect starter shop.
12x20
240 sq ft
Our most popular workshop at 240 sq ft — fits a table saw, workbench, and lumber rack. Under VA permit threshold. Shell from $6,000.
14x24
336 sq ft
Spacious 336 sq ft shop with room for multiple stationary tools and a dedicated assembly area. Shell from $8,500.
14x28+
392+ sq ft
Full-featured 392 sq ft workshop with separate machining and assembly zones. Turnkey from $35,000.
Pro tip: A shed that’s a home office by day and a sports lounge by night is a smart investment. We build flexible layouts that accommodate both stories.
Five Forks Permits & Codes
Pricing
✓ 12×24 (288 sq ft) — Economy $6,500–$7,800 | Premium $9,000–$11,000 | Garage Package $10,000–$12,500
✓ 14×24 (336 sq ft) — Economy $8,500–$10,000 | Premium $11,500–$13,500 | Garage Package $12,500–$15,000
✓ 14×32 (448 sq ft) — Economy $11,000–$13,500 | Premium $14,500–$17,500 | Garage Package $16,000–$19,000
Workshop upgrades (heavy floor, electrical prep, insulation) typically add 25–40% to base. Custom sizing quoted per project.
Financing
✓ Traditional — From 6.99% APR with approved credit.
✓ Cash — Best pricing. No fees.
55 miles from our Richmond location. In our standard delivery area — free standard delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a permit for a workshop shed in Virginia?
If it’s 256 square feet or less, you’re exempt from the building permit. But you’ll still need a zoning permit and electrical permit if wiring the structure.
Q: What size workshop do I need for woodworking?
12×20 is the functional minimum. 12×24 gives you separate machining and assembly areas. For a full shop, go 14×24 or larger.