Maricopa, AZ Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

MCC 18.80.020 expressly lists carports among the roofed accessory structures it regulates, alongside garages, sheds, gazebos, pergolas, and covered patios. A detached carport has a maximum height of 15 feet; an attached carport cannot exceed the height of the main building. The minimum setback is 3 feet in any location other than the required front yard. Accessory structures, including carports, must generally be located behind the front line of the primary structure unless otherwise specified in the code, and on corner lots cannot project beyond the required front yard on any street frontage for lots under one acre. Residential accessory structures greater than 120 square feet require Planning and Zoning approval per the city's guide, and a building permit is typically required for the structure itself. Detached accessory structures cannot occupy more than 30 percent of the required rear yard setback. Note that single-unit dwellings in Maricopa must provide covered parking, so a carport may help satisfy parking requirements depending on configuration; confirm with Development Services. Front-yard or street-facing carports are commonly limited, so check your specific zoning district before building or enclosing a carport.