Bessemer's Zoning Ordinance (Appendix B) treats carports as accessory structures. Per Sec. 8.6, accessory structures may be built in a rear yard but cannot occupy more than 30% of the required rear yard and must be at least 5 ft from side and rear lot lines. Per Sec. 8.3, accessory structures are not allowed in any required front yard.
Carports built as accessory structures are subject to Appendix B, Section 8 (District Development Criteria). Section 8.6 limits rear-yard coverage to 30% of the required rear yard and mandates a 5-ft setback from side and rear property lines. Section 8.3 prohibits accessory structures in required front yards and requires attached or detached garages facing a street to sit at least 25 ft from the street right-of-way line. Building permits are required (minimum fee $26). Carports must also meet the 2015 IBC suite for wind/structural loads.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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