Carports in unincorporated San Diego County are considered accessory structures and must comply with zoning setback requirements. Carports over 120 sq ft require building permits. In wildfire zones, carport construction must meet fire-resistant material standards.
Carports are regulated as accessory structures under the County Zoning Ordinance. Structures over 120 sq ft require a building permit per County Code Section 91.1.105.2. Carports must comply with the setback requirements for the applicable zoning district. In Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, carport construction must use fire-resistant materials. The County may have additional requirements for carport covers that could collect wind loads. Metal carports and fabric shade structures may have different permit requirements depending on size and permanence. Carports cannot encroach into required front yard setbacks in most zones without a variance.
Unpermitted carports over 120 sq ft may be cited by Code Compliance. Structures in setback areas without variances must be removed or relocated.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
See how other cities in San Diego County handle carport rules.
See how Elfin Forest's carport rules rules stack up against other locations.
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