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Rules for Friggebod

Since 2008 the current rules apply for friggebods of up to 15 m² building area. It was also the year when Sommarnöjen introduced Sweden's first collection of architect-designed friggebods in the new format, small buildings with a strong architectural presence.

Basic rules for friggebod

A friggebod may be erected without a building permit if the following conditions are met:

  • Maximum building area: 15 m² in total, distributed across one or more buildings

  • Maximum height: 3 meters to the ridge from average ground level

  • Placement: At least 4.5 meters from the property boundary, unless the neighbor gives written consent

  • Exemption from building permit: Applies nationwide, but may require a shoreline protection exemption or a special notification for water and sewage

  • Independent of Attefallshus: You may build a friggebod even if you have already erected an Attefallshus

The rules also apply within detailed development plans

One of the major advantages of friggebods is that they can be built even on properties that have already used their building rights under the detailed development plan. The building can also be placed on so-called prickmark and is not affected by plan regulations such as roof pitch or choice of materials. This makes the friggebod a flexible complement – both functionally and aesthetically.

Building a friggebod outside a detailed development plan area

Outside a detailed development plan there is generally greater freedom. There one can sometimes instead apply for a complementary house (komplementhus) of any size. However, complementary houses are subject to other rules and are seldom allowed to be used as permanent residences.

Even outside planned areas it still applies that the friggebod may be placed closer than 4.5 meters from the property boundary if the neighbor approves. Usually a distance of 1 meter is then allowed.

Placement in relation to the main building

A friggebod must be freestanding – it may therefore not be built attached to the dwelling house, Attefallshus or any other building.

If you want to create an architectural link between the houses you can have a deck or pergola connect the buildings. A pergola is not counted as a roof if it has at least 50% openness for light.

There is no exact rule for how close a friggebod may be to another house, but at least one meter is required so the buildings can be maintained. When a friggebod is placed close to another building, fire safety requirements may need to be adjusted.

A friggebod should also be located in connection with the main building, which in most cases means a distance of up to about 25 meters.

Building a friggebod on an undeveloped plot

To erect a friggebod a main building is required on the property. At the same time it is possible to build a friggebod on an undeveloped plot, but then it is not formally a friggebod, but a small main building requiring a building permit of 15 m².

On Boverket's website you will find all the rules that apply to friggebods.

Turnkey friggebods from Sommarnöjen

We handle questions about friggebods around Sverige daily. You are welcome to contact us with your queries. See our turnkey friggebods here.

Selected friggebods

See all friggebods