San Diego County, CA Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

In unincorporated San Diego County, private garages and carports are accessory uses regulated by Section 6156 of the Zoning Ordinance. Attached private garages and carports are addressed in Section 6156.a, and detached private garages and carports in Section 6156.g. On lots of less than one acre gross, the total/combined area of these structures may not exceed 1,000 square feet or 25% of the living area of the principal residence, whichever is greater. The allowance increases on larger lots: 1,500 sq ft (1 to under 2 acres), 2,000 sq ft (2 to under 4 acres), and 3,000 sq ft (4 acres or larger), with detached structures over the base limit requiring a 25-foot setback from property lines. A detached carport is limited to one story not exceeding 12 feet, but may be up to two stories and 24 feet if it meets the main building setbacks. Under Section 4835, a detached carport is not permitted in the front yard except in agricultural and residential zones in conformance with Section 4837, and is not permitted in the exterior side yard. Carports demolished or converted in conjunction with constructing an ADU do not require replacement parking.