Preparing Your Property for Your Swing Sheds Golf Simulator Studio

Table of Contents

  1. Overview

  2. Permits & Zoning

  3. Site Assessment & Leveling

  4. Concrete Foundation

  5. Electrical Requirements

  6. Drainage & Moisture Control

  7. Access & Delivery Logistics

  8. Timeline & Next Steps

Overview

Installing a Swing Sheds golf simulator studio is an exciting investment, but proper site preparation is essential to ensure flawless performance and long-term durability. This guide walks you through every step of preparing your property—from permits and permits to electrical setup—so your studio arrives ready to deliver the premium experience you deserve.

A well-prepared site prevents costly delays, protects your investment, and ensures your simulator performs at its best from day one.

Permits & Zoning

Understanding Local Requirements

Before breaking ground, you'll need to navigate local building codes and zoning regulations. Requirements vary significantly by state, county, and municipality.

What You Need to Know:

  • Most jurisdictions require a building permit for structures over a certain size (typically 120–200 sq ft)

  • Setback requirements (distance from property lines) vary by location

  • Some areas require architectural review or homeowners association approval

  • Electrical work typically requires a separate electrical permit

  • Septic systems and well proximity may affect placement

Your Action Items:

  1. Contact your local building department or county assessor's office

  2. Provide your shed model dimensions and intended location

  3. Ask specifically about: building permits, setback requirements, electrical permits, and any HOA restrictions

  4. Request a written summary of requirements

  5. Budget 2–4 weeks for permit approval

Cost Estimate: $200–$1,000 (varies widely by jurisdiction)

Pro Tip: We can provide detailed specifications and drawings for your Swing Sheds model to share with your building department, making the permit process smoother.

Site Assessment & Leveling

Evaluating Your Property

Before your concrete contractor arrives, assess your site carefully. The right location sets up your entire installation for success.

Key Considerations:

Terrain & Slope

  • Identify the flattest area of your property (within 2–3 inches of level is ideal)

  • Note any slopes, drainage patterns, or low spots

  • Avoid areas prone to water pooling or runoff

  • Consider sun exposure (afternoon shade can help with climate control)

Soil Conditions

  • Soft, sandy, or clay-heavy soil may require additional site prep

  • Poorly draining soil needs enhanced drainage solutions

  • Compacted soil is ideal for concrete foundation stability

Access & Obstacles

  • Ensure clear access for concrete trucks and delivery vehicles

  • Note overhead obstacles (power lines, tree branches)

  • Identify underground utilities (call 811 before digging)

  • Plan equipment staging area for materials and tools

Proximity to Structures

  • Maintain recommended setbacks from your home, property lines, and other buildings

  • Consider proximity to septic systems or wells

  • Plan for adequate clearance around doors and windows

Site Preparation Work

Once you've selected your location, prepare the ground:

  1. Clear the area — Remove vegetation, debris, and obstacles

  2. Mark the footprint — Use chalk or spray paint to outline your shed's dimensions

  3. Call 811 — Locate underground utilities before any digging

  4. Level the ground — Remove high spots and fill low areas

  5. Compact the soil — Use a plate compactor to create a stable base

  6. Remove topsoil — Excavate 4–6 inches to expose stable subsoil

Cost Estimate: $300–$1,500 (depends on terrain complexity)

Concrete Foundation

Why Concrete Matters

A properly engineered concrete slab is the foundation of your golf simulator's performance and longevity. It provides stability for your simulator equipment, protects against moisture, and ensures level, durable support for decades.

For detailed information on concrete costs, installation, and why it's critical, see our Concrete Slab Guide.

Concrete Specifications

Recommended Slab Details:

  • Thickness: 4–6 inches (6 inches recommended for simulator studios)

  • Reinforcement: Rebar or wire mesh for added durability

  • Finish: Smooth trowel finish for equipment stability

  • Slope: Minimum 1–2% grade away from structure for drainage

  • Perimeter: Consider a 12–18 inch apron around the shed for additional drainage

Sizing by Model:

  • The Pebble (12x20): 240 sq ft slab

  • The Augusta Studio (16x20): 320 sq ft slab

  • The St. Andrews Suite (16x24): 384 sq ft slab

  • The Old Course Bespoke: Custom dimensions

Hiring a Concrete Contractor

  1. Get 2–3 quotes from licensed, local concrete contractors

  2. Share your shed model dimensions and site photos

  3. Ask about experience with shed foundations

  4. Confirm they'll provide proper grading and drainage

  5. Request a written estimate and timeline

Cost Estimate: $1,500–$4,500 (varies by model size and region)

Timeline: 1–2 weeks for concrete to cure before delivery

Electrical Requirements

Understanding Your Electrical Needs

Your Swing Sheds studio requires a dedicated electrical system to power your simulator, HVAC, lighting, and accessories safely and reliably.

Standard Electrical Package (All Models):

  • 100-amp electrical service (minimum)

  • Dedicated circuit breaker panel inside the shed

  • GFCI-protected outlets for safety

  • Ceiling outlet for projector and ventilation fan

  • Wall outlets for lighting and accessories

  • Proper grounding and surge protection

Electrical Installation Process

Step 1: Assess Your Home's Electrical Capacity

  • Confirm your home's main electrical panel can support 100-amp service to the shed

  • Older homes may need panel upgrades (consult a licensed electrician)

Step 2: Plan the Route

  • Determine the path from your home's electrical panel to the shed

  • Consider underground conduit vs. overhead lines (underground is preferred)

  • Measure the distance (affects wire gauge and cost)

Step 3: Hire a Licensed Electrician

  • Electrical work must be performed by a licensed professional

  • All work must comply with local electrical codes

  • A licensed electrician will pull permits and arrange inspections

Step 4: Coordinate Timing

  • Electrical work should be completed before or during shed delivery

  • The electrician will install the panel and rough-in wiring

  • Final connections happen after the shed is positioned

Electrical Checklist

  • Home electrical panel assessed for capacity

  • Licensed electrician selected and quoted

  • Route from home to shed planned

  • Electrical permit obtained

  • Conduit/wiring materials ordered

  • Installation scheduled before shed delivery

  • Final inspection completed by local authority

Cost Estimate: $2,000–$5,000 (varies by distance, complexity, and local labor rates)

Pro Tip: We'll provide detailed electrical specifications for your model to share with your electrician, ensuring everything is installed correctly.

Drainage & Moisture Control

Why Drainage Matters

Proper drainage protects your shed and simulator equipment from moisture damage, which is one of the most common threats to long-term performance and durability.

Moisture Risks Without Proper Drainage:

  • Water pooling around the shed foundation

  • Moisture seeping into the structure

  • Wood rot and structural deterioration

  • Electrical system corrosion

  • Simulator equipment failure

  • Mold and humidity issues inside the studio

Drainage Solutions

Concrete Slab Grading

  • Your concrete slab should slope away from the shed at a minimum 1–2% grade

  • This directs water away from the foundation

  • Confirm your concrete contractor includes proper grading in their estimate

Perimeter Drainage

  • Consider a 12–18 inch concrete apron around the shed

  • Directs water away from the structure

  • Improves overall site appearance and durability

French Drain (if needed)

  • For sites with poor natural drainage or high water table

  • A perforated pipe surrounded by gravel directs water away from the foundation

  • Typically costs $500–$2,000 depending on length and complexity

Gutters & Downspouts

  • Install gutters on your shed roof to collect and direct rainwater

  • Extend downspouts at least 4–6 feet away from the foundation

  • Consider directing water to a rain garden or drainage area

Site Grading

  • Ensure the surrounding ground slopes away from the shed

  • Fill any low spots that could trap water

  • Remove vegetation that could impede drainage

Drainage Checklist

  • Concrete slab includes proper slope away from shed

  • Perimeter apron planned (if applicable)

  • French drain assessed (if needed for your site)

  • Gutters and downspouts planned

  • Surrounding site grading directs water away

  • Drainage plan documented and approved

Access & Delivery Logistics

Preparing for Delivery

Your Swing Sheds studio will be delivered on a flatbed truck. Proper access and staging ensure a smooth, damage-free delivery.

Access Requirements:

  • Clear, level driveway or access road to your site

  • Minimum 12-foot clearance (width) for delivery truck

  • No overhead obstacles (power lines, tree branches)

  • Ability to position truck within 20–30 feet of final shed location

  • Stable ground that can support a loaded flatbed truck

Site Staging:

  • Clear a 40x40 foot area near the shed location for equipment and materials

  • Identify a safe spot for the delivery truck to park

  • Ensure adequate space for the crane or lift equipment

  • Keep the area clear of obstacles and personnel during delivery

Pre-Delivery Checklist:

  • Driveway and access road cleared and inspected

  • Overhead obstacles identified and cleared

  • Underground utilities marked (call 811)

  • Concrete slab cured and ready (minimum 7 days)

  • Electrical panel installed and ready for connection

  • Site staging area prepared and cleared

  • Delivery date confirmed with Swing Sheds

  • Homeowner and key personnel available on delivery day

Delivery Day Coordination

  • Plan to be on-site during delivery

  • Have a clear view of the delivery truck's path

  • Ensure the concrete slab is fully cured and accessible

  • Have electrical connections ready for final hookup

  • Plan for 4–6 hours for delivery and positioning

Timeline & Next Steps

Recommended Preparation Timeline

Weeks 1–2: Planning & Permits

  • Contact local building department

  • Gather permit requirements

  • Select site location

  • Hire concrete and electrical contractors

Weeks 3–4: Site Prep & Permits

  • Clear and level site

  • Call 811 for utility location

  • Submit permit applications

  • Finalize contractor quotes and schedules

Weeks 5–6: Concrete & Electrical

  • Concrete slab poured and cured (7–14 days)

  • Electrical work completed and inspected

  • Final site preparations

Week 7+: Delivery & Installation

  • Confirm delivery date with Swing Sheds

  • Final site walkthrough

  • Shed delivery and positioning

  • Final electrical connections and testing

Total Timeline: 8–12 weeks from planning to delivery (varies by permit approval and contractor availability)

Your Next Steps

  1. Contact Swing Sheds — Schedule a consultation to discuss your site and timeline

  2. Assess Your Property — Walk through the site assessment checklist above

  3. Get Local Quotes — Reach out to concrete and electrical contractors

  4. Apply for Permits — Begin the permit process with your local building department

  5. Plan Your Timeline — Coordinate all trades and confirm delivery dates

We're here to guide you through every step. Our team will provide detailed specifications for your model, answer questions, and help coordinate with your contractors to ensure a seamless installation.

Ready to get started? Contact us today for a free consultation, and let's prepare your property for your premium Swing Sheds golf simulator studio.