North Chicago, IL Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

Carports in North Chicago are governed by Article 4, Section 4.4 (Accessory Use and Accessory Structure Regulations) of the Zoning Ordinance, updated November 18, 2024. Section 4.4.3.8 expressly lists carports among permitted accessory uses. Section 1.3.2 requires a building permit before any structure is erected or constructed, and plans must be signed and sealed by an architect or engineer (Section 1.3.3). Section 4.4.2.6 prohibits accessory buildings or structures from being located in a required front yard or required side yard unless otherwise provided. Section 4.4.2.7 limits non-garage accessory structures to ten feet (10'-0") in height; detached garages are limited to 865 square feet under Section 4.4.2.7.1 unless the Economic and Community Development Director finds no adverse impact. Section 4.4.2.9 requires a detached accessory structure to sit at least five feet (5'-0") from the principal building and any lot line, with detached garages between five and ten feet of the principal building requiring 5/8" drywall on interior walls and ceiling. Section 4.4.4.1 requires a Special Use Permit for any accessory structure (other than signs) used for display in front of a principal building, and such structures must sit at least seven feet from any lot line adjacent to a public right-of-way and five feet from any other lot line. Underlying lot, yard and bulk standards in Table 2 of Section 3.3 apply to the principal building: R1 minimum lot 8,000 sq ft and 30-foot front yard, R2 minimum 7,000 sq ft, R3 5,000-6,000 sq ft, R4 5,000-6,000 sq ft, R5 5,000 sq ft, all with a 35-foot height limit (R5 reaches 55 feet for apartments). Lot coverage in residential districts ranges from 45 to 55 percent under Column H of Table 2.