Visalia, CA Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

Under the Visalia Municipal Code Title 17 zoning ordinance, accessory structures other than carports and enclosed storage structures must observe the same front, side, and rear setbacks as the main structure. Carports receive a tailored standard: a carport structure may be permitted on a side property line and may extend to within not less than 5 feet of the rear property line. All carport structures are subject to review by the Planning Director, who confirms compliance with development standards, height, fire-separation, and design requirements. Building height is measured vertically from the average elevation of the natural ground level along the front property line to the highest point of the structure. Carports must also satisfy California Building Code and IRC provisions adopted by the city, including fire-resistive construction where the carport is close to a property line, and they must not encroach into required driveway, sight-distance, or fence-height envelopes. A building permit is required for new carport construction; site plan review through the Permit Counter at 315 E. Acequia Avenue precedes permit issuance.