Manitou Springs, CO Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

Manitou Springs treats a carport as an accessory structure under Title 18 of the Municipal Code. Setback, maximum height, and rear-yard coverage limits vary by zoning district (R-1, R-2, R-MH and the Manitou Avenue overlays each have their own dimensional standards), and the City's hillside and historic-overlay rules can tighten those numbers further. Confirm the precise dimensional standard for your parcel with the Planning Department at (719) 685-5481 before designing the structure. Permitting in Manitou Springs follows a two-step process unique to the Pikes Peak region: an applicant must first obtain a Property Improvement Permit (PIP) from the City of Manitou Springs Neighborhood Services office at 606 Manitou Avenue, then submit the project to the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD) for the building permit. The City's published rule of thumb is that 'if it requires a tool, it probably needs a PIP.' Carports must be anchored to a permanent foundation, meet PPRBD wind and snow-load standards for the El Paso County mountain corridor, and respect any utility easement on the lot. Carports may not be enclosed without re-permitting as a garage, and carports erected within the Manitou Springs Historic District boundary additionally require Historic Preservation Commission review. A carport that converts an existing required parking space, or that intrudes into the front-yard setback, is generally not allowed without a variance from the Board of Adjustment.