Del Norte County, CA Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

The County zoning code does not single out carports; an open or attached carport is regulated as part of the dwelling or as an 'accessory building' depending on its design. Under Coastal Zoning Ordinance Section 21.04.140, an accessory building is subordinate and incidental to the main residence and, on residential lots smaller than three acres, may not exceed 1,000 square feet in area coverage or 16 feet in height measured to the roof peak without a use permit. An accessory building must be built after, or together with, the main residence. The non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance (Title 20) governs carports outside the Coastal Zone, and the County's adopted setback and yard standards for the underlying zone district apply to where a carport may be placed. Because rules vary by zone district and by whether the carport is attached to the dwelling, confirm the building-permit requirement and required setbacks with the County Building and Planning Divisions before construction. ADU parking, when required for a new-construction ADU, may be satisfied by a covered or uncovered space.