Carports in Minneapolis are regulated as accessory structures under Chapter 535 and require a building permit regardless of size because they are permanently anchored. They must meet the same setbacks and rear-yard location rules as garages and sheds.
Minneapolis Construction Code Services classifies carports (open-sided roof structures covering vehicles) as accessory buildings under Chapter 535. Unlike small sheds, carports require a building permit because they are permanently affixed to the ground and have significant wind and snow load implications given Minneapolis snow loads of 50 psf ground and 35 psf roof. Setbacks are 3 feet from side and rear property lines and they must be located in the rear 40 percent of the lot in most residential districts. Prefabricated metal carports must be anchored with concrete footings meeting the 42-inch frost depth. Fabric or canvas carports intended as temporary winter shelters are typically not permitted as year-round structures and may be prohibited by neighborhood 311 complaints as outdoor storage. Carports attached to the principal dwelling count toward dwelling setbacks and lot coverage.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Minneapolis code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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See how Minneapolis's carport rules rules stack up against other locations.
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