Owasso, OK Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

Carports in Owasso are governed by the Owasso Zoning Code (Ordinance No. 1131, adopted June 19, 2018; amended August 2019) and Chapter 6 of the City Code (Building Code), which adopts the 2018 International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings and the 2018 International Building Code under the authority of Oklahoma Statutes Title 11 Section 14-107. The Community Development FAQ confirms that 'Carports are permitted by Special Exception, which requires approval from the Owasso Board of Adjustment,' meaning a residential carport is not allowed by right and the homeowner must apply through the Community Development Department, pay the BOA filing fee, and present the request at a publicly noticed hearing. The Zoning Code includes specific provisions on a 'Carport Encroaching into the Front Setback,' so a carport that projects into the front yard requires both the Special Exception and a finding by the Board of Adjustment that the encroachment is consistent with neighborhood character (factors include whether other carports already exist within 300 feet of the subject lot). Detached accessory buildings on residentially-zoned property may not 'cover more than 20% of the area of the minimum required rear yard,' and 'total floor area cannot exceed 500 square feet' (Community Development FAQ). Building permits are issued by the Building Services Division (918-376-1534) for 'Garages, carports, roofed patios, or any other accessory building.' Tulsa County does not separately regulate carports inside Owasso city limits. State law does not preempt the city's Special Exception requirement.