Mendocino County, CA Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

Mendocino County does not have a separate carport ordinance. A carport is regulated as a detached or attached accessory structure under the Zoning Ordinance's accessory-use regulations (Chapter 20.164 inland; Chapter 20.456 in the Coastal Zone). Like other accessory buildings, a carport must be incidental to the main residential use and must comply with the development standards of the underlying zoning district, including setbacks, maximum height and lot coverage. Under the County-adopted building code, a one-story detached accessory structure of 120 square feet or less is exempt from a building permit; most carports are larger than 120 square feet and therefore require a building permit. The reduced 5-foot side and rear setback available under Section 20.152.015 applies to detached accessory buildings that do not exceed 15 feet in height at the ridge and 500 square feet of floor area, which can cover a modest carport; larger structures must meet the full district setbacks. Attached carports are treated as part of the main dwelling for setback purposes. In the unincorporated Coastal Zone, building a carport may require a Coastal Development Permit, and in highly scenic areas siting and visual-impact standards may apply. Confirm specific requirements for your zoning district with Planning & Building Services before building.