Carports over 200 sq ft need a DPS building permit under Zoning Section 59.3.6. Must be open on at least two sides or they are reclassified as garages.
A carport in Montgomery County is treated as an accessory structure under Zoning Ordinance Section 59.3.6. Carports over 200 square feet or with permanent footings require a residential building permit from the Department of Permitting Services (DPS). Even permit-exempt carports must comply with zoning setbacks, typically 5 feet from side and rear property lines in most residential zones. Carports must be open on at least two sides to be classified as carports rather than garages; enclosing additional sides may trigger reclassification and additional building code requirements. Structural design must account for Maryland wind loads and snow loads per the IRC. Carports attached to the dwelling must maintain the structural integrity of the principal building and may affect fire separation requirements. The roof covering must meet fire-resistance requirements based on proximity to property lines. Carports count toward maximum lot coverage calculations. In historic districts (such as Takoma Park, Kensington, or Chevy Chase), carport design may be subject to Historic Area Work Permit (HAWP) review by the Historic Preservation Commission. Metal carport kits and temporary fabric carports may not comply with building code structural requirements and should be verified with DPS before installation.
Unpermitted carports exceeding 200 square feet are subject to DPS enforcement. Stop-work orders and removal may be required. Carports in setback violations are subject to Board of Appeals variance or removal.
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