Free DIY Firewood Shed Plans

Build a sturdy firewood shed and keep your wood dry, stacked, and ready to burn all season. These free DIY firewood shed plans come in multiple sizes — from compact 4×6 designs to large 8×16 storage sheds — with full cut lists, materials lists, and step-by-step building instructions for any skill level.

How to Choose the Right Firewood Shed Size

Not sure which plan to build? Use this as your guide:

4×6 or 4×8 — Small Yards and Occasional Use
A 4×6 or 4×8 firewood shed holds approximately half to one cord of wood — enough for a household that uses a fireplace occasionally through winter. These compact designs are the fastest to build and fit in tight spaces along a fence or garage wall.

6×8 or 6×10 — The Most Popular Size
This is the sweet spot for most homeowners. A 6×8 or 6×10 shed holds one to two cords comfortably, covering a full heating season for a wood-burning stove or regular fireplace use. These plans balance storage capacity with a manageable weekend build.

8×12 or 8×16 — Full Winter Heating
If wood is your primary heat source, build big. An 8×12 or 8×16 firewood shed can hold two to four cords and keeps your supply dry and accessible all season without restocking runs.

 

Firewood Shed FAQ

Does a firewood shed need a floor?
No — most firewood sheds are built without a solid floor. A gravel base or pressure-treated skids work better because they allow airflow underneath the wood, which speeds up drying and prevents rot. A solid wood or concrete floor traps moisture and will shorten the life of your firewood stack.

How much firewood fits in a 4×6 shed?
A 4×6 firewood shed holds approximately half a cord to one full cord of wood depending on wall height and how tightly the wood is stacked. A full cord measures 4x4x8 feet — 128 cubic feet — so use your shed’s interior dimensions to calculate exact capacity before you build.

What lumber should I use to build a firewood shed?
Use pressure-treated lumber for any framing members that contact the ground or are close to it — skids, bottom plates, and floor joists if you include a floor. For wall framing and rafters, standard construction-grade 2x4s work fine. Cedar or redwood are naturally rot-resistant options if you want to skip the pressure-treated cost for above-ground framing.

Do I need a permit to build a firewood shed?
It depends on your local municipality. Most areas exempt small accessory structures under a certain square footage — commonly 100 or 200 square feet — from permit requirements, but rules vary significantly by location. Check with your local building department before you break ground.

How far should a firewood shed be from my house?
Keep firewood storage at least 5 to 30 feet from your home depending on your local fire code and pest concerns. Wood piles attract termites and rodents, so distance from the foundation is recommended. Check your local ordinances for the exact required setback.

 

Keep Building

If you’re ready to start, here are a few pages that will help: