Mac OSX • Tech

Fix the “zsh: permission denied” macOS Terminal Error

February 8, 2025
by Wamiq Ali
3 min read

Introduction

If you’ve ever encountered the zsh: permission denied error on your macOS terminal, you’re not alone. This issue commonly occurs when trying to run a script or access a file without having the necessary permissions. However, the good news is that it is usually an easy fix. In this guide, we’ll break down the possible reasons for this error and provide step-by-step solutions to get your scripts running smoothly again on the macbook.

Why Does the “zsh: Permission Denied” Error Occur?

Before jumping into the fixes, it’s important to understand why this error occurs. Here are some common reasons:

  • Lack of Execution Permission: The file or script you’re trying to run isn’t marked as executable.
  • Incorrect File Ownership: The file may not be owned by your user account, restricting access.
  • Restricted System Locations: macOS protects certain directories, preventing unauthorized modifications.
  • Security & Privacy Settings: macOS sometimes blocks scripts or commands for security reasons.

How to Fix “zsh: Permission Denied” Error

1. Grant Execution Permission

If the file lacks execution permission, you can manually allow it using the chmod command:

chmod +x filename

Replace filename with the actual name of your script or file. After this, try running the command again.

2. Check File Ownership

If you suspect the file isn’t owned by your user account, check ownership using:

ls -l filename

If another user owns the file, change ownership using:

sudo chown your-username filename

Replace your-username with your Mac’s username and filename with the actual file name.

3. Run with Administrator Privileges

Some commands or scripts require admin rights. Try running your command with sudo:

sudo ./filename

You’ll be prompted to enter your password. If the script runs successfully, then permission was the issue.

4. Move the File to a Different Location

Mac’s security settings might block execution if the file is stored in protected directories like Downloads or Desktop. Try moving it to another directory, such as Documents, and run it from there.

mv filename ~/Documents/
cd ~/Documents/
./filename

5. Check Security & Privacy Settings

If macOS blocks your file for security reasons, you may need to override security settings:

  1. Open System Settings > Privacy & Security.
  2. Scroll down to “Security” and check if macOS has blocked the file.
  3. Click Allow Anyway if prompted.

6. Unlock the File or Folder

The “zsh: permission denied” error in Terminal can also occur when trying to interact with a locked file or folder in macOS. To unlock it, Control-click the item, choose Get Info, and uncheck the Locked box.

chflags nouchg [file or folder path]

7. Use an Alternative Shell

If none of the above solutions work, you can try running the script in bash instead of zsh:

bash filename

Conclusion

The error zsh: permission denied can be frustrating, but it’s usually a simple permission issue that can be fixed using a few commands. Whether it’s adjusting file permissions, changing ownership, or tweaking macOS security settings, any of these solutions should resolve the problem. Next time you run into this error, use this guide to troubleshoot and get back to work quickly.

You may also like