Boise, ID Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

Boise regulates carports through Title 11 (Development Code) of Boise City Code, primarily Section 11-06-07 (Accessory Uses and Structures) along with the dimensional standards for each residential zoning district in Section 11-02-02. An accessory use or structure must be subordinate and customarily incidental to the principal use on the same parcel and may not be used as a dwelling unit or for human habitation. In all residential zones, garages and carports with an opening onto a side street must keep the opening at least 20 feet from the side-street lot line so a parked vehicle does not overhang the right-of-way. No detached accessory structure may sit in front of the main building or encroach into a required front or street-side yard unless approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission as a conditional use. Small detached accessory structures under 120 square feet and under 7 feet high have more flexible yard placement, but typical roofed carports usually exceed those thresholds and must meet the standard side and rear setbacks of the underlying zone. A building permit is required for most carports through Planning & Development Services; confirm zone-specific setbacks and height limits with PDS at (208) 608-7100 before construction.