Carports are treated as accessory structures in Somerville and require building permits and zoning setback compliance. Many lots cannot accommodate a carport due to dimensional limits.
A carport is a roofed accessory structure providing vehicle cover, open on at least two sides. In Somerville, carports count as accessory structures under the zoning ordinance and must meet accessory structure setback and height limits (typically 3 feet from side and rear lot lines, not in front yards, and under 15 feet tall). A building permit is required because the roof system is a permanent structure. Carports also count toward lot coverage and impervious surface if the roof drains to a paved area. Given Somerville typical lot widths of 30 to 40 feet with driveways along one side, many properties cannot fit a compliant carport. Fabric and portable car covers are not permanent structures but are subject to property maintenance rules if ragged or unsecured.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Somerville, MA
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Somerville, MA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Middlesex County.
See how other cities in Middlesex County handle carport rules.
See how Somerville's carport rules rules stack up against other locations.
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