Anza, CA Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

A carport is a roofed structure for vehicle storage that is open on at least two sides. Under the California Residential Code as adopted by Riverside County, detached carports 120 sq ft or smaller may be permit-exempt (similar to sheds), but virtually all useful carports exceed this threshold and require a building permit. Plans must show structural design for wind and seismic loads (important in the San Jacinto and Santa Ana fault areas) and compliance with fire setback standards. Under Ord. 348, carports must generally meet front-yard setback (20-25 ft typical), and where they encroach into side-yard setbacks to reach a garage position, they must be open on at least two sides to not be treated as a fully enclosed accessory building. Attached carports count toward lot coverage. Fabric or canvas carports (carport tents) technically require a permit if over 120 sq ft and typically do not meet wind load requirements; they are frequently cited by Code Enforcement. In HOA areas and the many planned communities in unincorporated Riverside (Menifee Valley, French Valley, Home Gardens), CC&Rs frequently prohibit fabric carports outright. In fire-hazard zones, carport roofs over combustible materials (RVs, boats) may trigger CBC Chapter 7A ignition-resistant standards.