Provo, UT Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

Provo treats carports as accessory structures subject to the yard and setback rules of Title 14. The R1 standard at Sec. 14.10.080 sets the front-yard setback for the main dwelling at 23 feet from back of curb or 14 feet behind the sidewalk or property line, whichever yields the greater setback, but garages and carports have a more specific rule: a minimum 20-foot setback behind the sidewalk, or 26 feet behind the back of curb where no sidewalk exists, so a vehicle parked in the driveway in front of the carport does not encroach onto the sidewalk or street. On corner lots the rear-yard rule prevents a carport on the side-street face from being placed closer to the side-street property line than the adjoining residence, and a 30-foot floor applies regardless. Accessory buildings outside the buildable area established for the main dwelling cannot be placed closer to the front property line than the main building. Other zones (R1.5, R2, RC, etc.) have parallel yard-requirements sections (for example Sec. 14.11.080); operators should confirm the controlling section for the specific zone. A building permit issued by Provo Development Services is required before constructing a carport, and the structure must meet the International Residential Code as adopted by Utah and Provo for footings, posts, roof framing, and snow load. Carports attached to the principal dwelling are generally treated as part of the dwelling for setback purposes; freestanding carports are accessory structures and follow the accessory-building rules in the relevant chapter. Utah County, in which Provo sits, does not apply a separate setback to carports inside city limits because Provo's incorporated jurisdiction governs zoning.