Detroit, MI Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

Detroit's Chapter 50 (Zoning) treats carports as accessory buildings and structures, which are governed by the city's general accessory-structure dimensional standards rather than by a carport-specific provision. In the lower-density residential districts (R1 and R2), Detroit limits detached accessory buildings or structures to one story and a maximum height of fifteen (15) feet, and requires that they not exceed the height of the principal structure. Accessory structures must be located in the rear setback area and observe specific separation/setback distances from the principal building and lot lines as set out in the City of Detroit's published guidance, 'Setbacks for Accessory Buildings and Corner Lots.' Carports attached to the principal dwelling are typically treated as part of the principal building and must comply with the principal-structure setbacks of the underlying zoning district rather than the rear-yard accessory rules. A BSEED building permit is required to erect a carport, regardless of size; Detroit does not provide a blanket size-based permit exemption for accessory structures comparable to the 200 sq ft IRC small-shed exemption used in some other Michigan jurisdictions. Construction must comply with the Michigan Residential Code (for one- and two-family dwellings) or the Michigan Building Code (for larger structures), including snow-load requirements applicable to carport roofs in southeastern Michigan. Trade permits are required for any electrical service, exterior lighting, or drainage tied into the carport.