Chattanooga, TN Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

Chattanooga City Code Chapter 38 (Zoning Ordinance) classifies carports as accessory structures permitted in residential zones such as R-1 Residential, R-2 Residential, R-3 Multi-Family, and R-T/Z Residential Townhouse. Detached carports must be located behind the front building line of the principal dwelling and meet the side and rear yard setbacks set for the underlying district under Article V (Residential Zones), with a minimum distance from the lot line determined by the specific zone. Attached carports are treated as part of the principal structure and must meet the same front, side, and rear setbacks as the dwelling itself. A residential building permit issued by the City of Chattanooga Land Development Office under Chapter 10 (Buildings) is required before construction; the City has adopted the International Residential Code (IRC) through Tennessee's statewide building code system, which generally requires a permit for any roofed accessory structure regardless of size. Lots inside a designated H-1 Historic District or contributing to the National Register require additional design review by the Historic Zoning Commission. Confirm setback dimensions for your specific zone with the Land Development Office at (423) 643-5891 or LDOzoning@chattanooga.gov.