Cary, NC Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

Cary classifies a carport as an accessory structure and reviews it under Section 5.3.4 of the Land Development Ordinance, with dimensional standards in Table 6.3-1. A detached accessory building may project no closer than 5 feet to the rear lot line and no closer than 5 feet to the side lot lines, and no projection is allowed into the required roadway (front) setback for the zoning district. Cary's LDO contains a specific exemption for carports and other roofed structures that are open on three or more sides: those structures are not subject to the floor area limitations otherwise imposed on accessory structures, provided the carport is located outside the minimum required setbacks for the principal structure on the lot. Carports must still meet the principal-structure setbacks of the underlying zoning district when they are attached to the home, and any associated above-ground mechanical or utility equipment must meet the accessory-structure setbacks in Table 6.3-1. A building permit is generally required to construct a carport in Cary, including for detached and attached carports, and Cary issues building permits through its online ePermits portal. HOA covenants in many Cary neighborhoods further restrict carport materials, location, and visibility from the street, and HOA approval is independent of Town permitting. Vegetated buffer setbacks under LDO Section 6.3.2 require a 5-foot buffer for accessory structures and vehicular use areas where applicable.