San Benito County, CA Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

San Benito County Code § 25.07.006 expressly includes carports in the definition of detached accessory structures, alongside garages, sheds, and covered patios, so the same general standards apply: a maximum of one story or 20 feet in height, the per-lot limits on the number of accessory buildings, and the rule that a detached carport may not be converted into a dwelling. Section 25.07.007 governs placement in residential zones, requiring accessory structures in the R-1 and R-M zones to be located in the rear half of the lot unless that is infeasible, in which case minor development plan review applies; an attached carport in front of the dwelling would instead be measured against the front-yard setback for the zoning district. The County's parking standards in § 25.07.010 require that driveways providing direct access from a public street to a parking facility, garage, or carport be at least 20 feet in depth, ensuring a vehicle can park without overhanging the right-of-way. A building permit is generally required for a permanent carport because of structural and wind-load requirements. On larger agricultural and ranch parcels, carports and equipment shelters are common but still must meet setback and height standards; confirm exact requirements with the Resource Management Agency, since carports attached to the main residence are measured under the primary structure's setbacks rather than the accessory rules.