Middlesex County, MA Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

Carports in Middlesex County are regulated as accessory structures under the Massachusetts State Building Code 780 CMR and local zoning bylaws. A building permit from the local Building Department is required for any carport, regardless of whether it is freestanding or attached, because the structure has a roof and foundation (even simple post footings). Typical setbacks in Middlesex residential zones require carports to be set back 10 to 15 feet from side lot lines, 20 to 30 feet from front lot lines, and 5 to 10 feet from the principal dwelling. Maximum height is typically 15 feet for accessory structures. Carports count toward lot coverage and impervious surface calculations. Historic districts in Cambridge, Concord, Lexington, Newton, and Arlington require Certificate of Appropriateness approval, and many historic commissions discourage carports as non-traditional. Snow load requirements (ground snow load 50 psf in most of Middlesex) require engineered design for prefab kits. Fabric tent carports are often prohibited by local bylaws as temporary structures.