Nashville, TN Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

Under Metro Code Title 17 (Zoning), carports are listed among permitted accessory structures along with garages, sheds, pole barns, and pool houses, but cannot contain bedrooms, kitchens, or dwelling space. Section 17.12.040 sets accessory-structure setbacks: for structures 700 sq ft or less located to the rear of the principal building, the minimum side setback is one-half of the zoning district requirement (but not less than 3 feet) and the rear setback is at least 3 feet, increasing to 10 feet when carport openings or garage doors face an alley. Structures larger than 700 sq ft must meet the full district setbacks, and only one rear accessory structure per lot receives the reduced setbacks. Section 17.12.060 caps accessory-structure height at one story or 16 feet on lots smaller than 40,000 sq ft; lots of 40,000 sq ft or more may go to two stories or 24 feet if full setbacks are provided. Section 17.12.050 caps the accessory-structure footprint at 700 sq ft or 50% of the principal dwelling's building coverage, whichever is greater, not to exceed 2,500 sq ft. Construction requires a Residential Permit from Metro Codes (Department of Codes and Building Safety) reviewed under the Nashville and Davidson County Residential Code (2018 IRC with local amendments). Historic overlays (e.g., Edgefield, Germantown) require additional preservation review.