There are as many potential uses for stand-alone structures as there are different versions of them -- everything from a small tool shack to a rambling two-story garage or guest house. Maybe you have too much clutter in your home or need an at-home retreat or perhaps a spot to store an extra vehicle.

Deciding which kind of outbuilding is best for your needs depends on the space you have available, the location you plan to use and, most importantly, your zoning requirements.

Most private homeowners have found a need for that extra room, whether it is just for storage or an actual room for use. Depending on your local ordinances, some of the more popular uses for an outbuilding include storage of gardening tools, a place to store your riding lawnmower, a changing room for the pool, an outdoor entertainment venue, a private home office or a personal workout center. Of course, just about anything someone wants the extra space for can be created in an accessory building structure.

Having a simple garden or tool shed can take the pesticides, fertilizers and power tools away from the prying hands of little children as well as keep your garage or basement a bit tidier. Children's bikes, outdoor play equipment and riding mowers or snowblowers will feel right at home in a backyard shed. If you have a pool or entertain guests outdoors, a custom building can accommodate a changing room, social bar or even a small outdoor kitchen area.

Before purchasing or building any shed or other outbuilding, you should always consider if it adds value to your property, the room you have available and where you need to place it for its intended use. Many outbuildings, from smaller sheds to small cabins and two-story garages, are available pre-built or can be designed and built on your own. Before you begin either venture, check with your local ordinances and zoning laws (or Homeowners Association rules) for size restrictions and rules about foundations, height, land clearing and whether you can have electricity or even running water in your structure.

Most utility sheds are not powered or insulated. Small ones, up to 80 square feet, are great for storing gardening supplies, smaller push mowers and gas cans. Small storage buildings, when they are properly water- and pest-proofed, are also wonderful alternatives to renting an expensive and sometimes inconvenient storage space for memorabilia or extra household goods. Medium sheds, normally up to 120 square feet, are wonderful places for the kids to store their bikes and sporting equipment or riding mowers and snowblowers. Large utility sheds, usually up to 288 square feet, can hold large lawn tractors or, if wired with electricity, can be terrific hobby rooms with crafts and small power tools. The smaller utilitarian sheds, while appreciated, usually do not add much resale home value. Most sheds are built from wood, vinyl or metal.

Structures larger than the above are commonly made for recreational or business reasons and are often on solid foundations, insulated and powered; they might also have indoor plumbing. An office that is separate from the house and away from noisy children can be a haven for a work-at-home freelancer. A fully equipped home gym can allow for early morning workouts without disturbing the rest of the family. She sheds, the modern version of the man cave, provide a wonderful respite away from home and the responsibilities of family life; He sheds are also gaining popularity as a place just for the guys to pal around in.

Many modern homes are built with garages, either attached or detached. But when you have that one extra vehicle that you would prefer to shelter from the elements, pre-cut kits or build-it-yourself garages will certainly make life easier. It's easy to combine spaces with a two-car garage (even if you only need one) and even a second story, perhaps for an office or overnight guest room.

Again, the possibilities are only limited by what you want and what your local rules permit. Always be sure to check those rules and make sure you have whatever permits may be necessary.