Tulare, CA Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

TMC § 10.32.060 establishes the citywide covered-parking standard: '[F]or single-family dwellings, a minimum of two covered parking spaces shall be provided on-site, with each space measuring a minimum of nine feet in width and 20 feet in depth.' An open-sided carport counts toward this requirement. As an accessory structure under Ch. 10.204, a carport observes the same residential setback rules: 3 ft minimum from the rear property line, 10 ft from a street-side line, and the underlying-district setback in the front yard. The 10-ft separation between a carport and a habitable structure (TMC § 10.32.060) is a fire-safety and ventilation rule that applies whether the carport is attached or detached. Carports require a building permit because they exceed 120 sq ft and have a permanent roof structure; the 120-sq-ft permit exemption for sheds does not apply. Posts must meet wind/seismic load requirements under the California Building Code, and any electrical (lighting, EV charger) requires a separate electrical permit. Carports may not be enclosed (converted to garage or storage) without an additional permit and may not be used as habitable space.