Vancouver regulates carports and detached accessory structures under VMC 20.902. Structures must be located behind the front elevation of the primary building and comply with setback, height, and lot-coverage standards for the applicable zone.
VMC 20.902.020 governs detached accessory buildings, including carports, for single-family and duplex lots. Structures must be located behind the primary building's front elevation. Detached accessory structures not exceeding 120 sq ft for tool sheds, playhouses, or similar uses may encroach into required rear and side setbacks, but the nearest wall must be at least 6 feet from any other building and eaves at least 4 feet apart. The structure may not cover more than 50% of the required rear/side setback area. Carports and garages require a minimum 20-foot maneuvering space from the entrance edge to the opposite alley edge. Accessory structures must comply with the primary zone's height and lot-coverage limits and cannot be constructed before the primary structure.
Unpermitted or non-compliant accessory structures are subject to stop-work orders and civil code enforcement penalties; structures violating setbacks may require relocation or removal.
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See how Vancouver's carport rules rules stack up against other locations.
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