Carports in Des Plaines are treated as accessory structures and require a building permit. They must meet zoning setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage limits applicable to accessory structures in the underlying residential district. Detached carports in front yards are generally prohibited.
Des Plaines's zoning ordinance treats carports as accessory structures subject to the same rules as detached garages. A building permit is required for any carport whether attached or freestanding. Setbacks typically require a side yard of at least 3 to 5 feet and a rear yard of at least 5 feet, depending on the zoning district. Carports may not project into required front yards and detached carports in front yards are generally prohibited. Total accessory structure coverage on a residential lot is capped (often around 30% of the rear yard and a maximum aggregate footprint). Height of detached accessory structures is typically limited to about 15 feet at peak. Carports must be open on the required number of sides to remain classified as carports rather than garages; enclosing a carport requires a separate permit and triggers garage construction standards. Anchoring to resist wind uplift is required, particularly for prefabricated metal carport kits.
Installing a carport without a permit may result in a stop-work order, double permit fees, and an order to remove the structure if it violates setbacks. Fines from Des Plaines Code Enforcement at (847) 391-5300 typically begin at $50 per day.
Des Plaines, IL
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
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