Dane County, WI Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

The Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code (Wis. Admin. Code SPS 321) requires a state building permit for any roofed accessory structure including attached and freestanding carports, regardless of size. Madison MGO §28.141 classifies carports as accessory buildings subject to: 5-foot side and rear setbacks in most residential districts, 25-foot front setback matching the principal dwelling, maximum height 15 feet, and accessory-structure lot coverage cap of 10 percent. Fitchburg Code §26-125 imposes similar standards. Middleton (§10-3) allows attached carports by right with 5-foot side setback. Verona and Stoughton match. Dane County Ch. 10 Zoning imposes 10-foot side/rear setbacks in most residential districts and prohibits carports in front yards of agricultural residential lots. All carports must meet Wisconsin snow-load design (typically 30 psf, 40 psf in some zones) and wind-load 90 mph per SPS 321.25. Prefab steel kits (Eagle Carports, General Shelters) still require engineered anchorage designs stamped per Wis. Stat. Ch. 443. HOAs commonly restrict or prohibit carports and can enforce covenants under Wis. Stat. §703 (condos) or deed restrictions.