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

San Bernardino County Development Code Chapter 83.02 (Accessory Structures) regulates carports as residential accessory structures. Permanent carports attached or detached require a building permit from the Building and Safety Division to ensure structural compliance with wind load (important in the High Desert and Cajon Pass where winds exceed 85 mph) and snow load (critical in mountain areas above 4,000 feet where ground snow loads can exceed 40 psf). Typical residential zoning requires 5-foot side and rear yard setbacks for detached accessory structures, though attached carports follow the primary dwelling setbacks. Maximum height is generally 15 feet for accessory structures. Front yard placement is generally prohibited except in certain zones and where consistent with the primary structure placement. Temporary fabric carports and car covers are typically exempt from permits if used only for weather protection of a single vehicle and removed within 180 days, but permanent fabric structures still require building permits in most zones. Any carport serving as the required covered parking for a dwelling must meet structural permit standards.