Start by deciding exactly what your farm shed will be used for, as this shapes its size, layout and features. A hay shed has very different needs from one housing a header, a shearing board or a workshop.
Before speaking to a manufacturer, it helps to have answers to these questions:
- What's the widest and tallest machinery you'll store, now and in the future?
- Do you need lockable sliding or roller doors to secure valuable equipment?
- Will you need space for an office, workshop or stockroom?
- Should the shed be open-sided for access and airflow, or fully enclosed?
- Will the shed serve more than one purpose?
If you're unsure about size, go a little bigger and taller than you think you need. Machinery keeps getting larger, and building in extra height and span now is much cheaper than extending later. Leaving room on site for a future awning is worth considering too.
Do you need council approval to build a farm shed?
Many large farm sheds require planning or building approval, although some rural properties and farm buildings may qualify as exempt development depending on the shed's size, zoning, location and other requirements. Rules differ between states, territories and councils, so your local council is the best first call.
In New South Wales, some farm buildings on rural land can be built as exempt development under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008, provided they meet every development standard, including size and boundary setback limits. Larger sheds generally need a development application or a complying development certificate.
Outside NSW, your state planning portal or local council can confirm what applies to your property. It pays to confirm the requirements early, as approval issues can lead to costly delays or changes later in the project.
Your manufacturer should also supply engineering certification and plans to support your application. At Standwell, we provide certified plans and can guide you through the approval process.
For more information on council approvals in different regions, see our guide below.
How much does a farm shed cost in 2026?
Most rural shed projects cost between $50,000 and $150,000+, depending on span, height, cladding and extras such as doors, skylights and wind rating. As a starting point, roof-only farm sheds cost from $150 per square metre, while fully enclosed sheds start from $250 per square metre.
Costs can change depending on whether you erect the shed yourself or bring in contractors. A kit shed you build yourself costs less upfront, but it means more work on your end.
When comparing quotes, check exactly what's included. A fixed-price quote covering engineering, materials, delivery and construction makes budgeting simpler. Our shed build pricing page goes into more detail.
How long does it take to build a steel farm shed?
A custom steel farm shed typically takes 3 to 5 months from planning to completion, while a pre-designed kit shed can be finished in 2 to 4 weeks. Approvals, engineering, fabrication and site preparation all play a part.
In Australia, you'll be hard-pressed to find a farm shed that isn't made from steel. It's strong, versatile and stands up well to harsh rural weather. Hot-dip galvanised frames go a step further, with the steel fully dipped in molten zinc to protect it from rust and corrosion.
A custom farm shed generally follows this process:
- Quote and design
- Site-specific engineering for wind rating and terrain
- Council approval
- Fabrication of the frame and components
- Delivery and erection on site
Site preparation can affect timing too. The ground needs to be cleared, levelled and compacted, and if you're pouring a slab, allow a few weeks for it to settle before construction starts. For further details, see our guide below.
Ready to start building your farm shed?
Once you know what your farm shed is for, what approvals you need, what it'll cost and how long it'll take, the rest of the project becomes much easier to plan. Skipping these steps is where most budget blowouts, delays and council headaches start.
At Standwell, we design and manufacture hot-dip galvanised structural steel farm sheds in Young, NSW, backed by site-specific engineering and our 25-year guarantee. Download our farm sheds brochure to explore the full range, or request a free quote to get your project moving.
Frequently asked questions ABOUT BUILDING A FARM SHED