Woodbury, MN Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

Woodbury's published code does not single out carports as their own permitting category. A carport is an accessory structure and is governed by the general accessory-building standards in Chapter 24 zoning. Those standards require accessory structures to be set back at least five feet from side and rear property lines, limit wall height to 12 feet, restrict structures to one story, generally prohibit placement in front of the principal building, and prohibit placement on drainage, utility, or other easements. Importantly for open-sided carports, the residential standards prohibit exterior materials such as plastic sheets, cloth, canvas, tarps and similar materials in platted residential areas, which restricts the popular fabric or tarp-style portable carport. The zoning code also expects detached accessory structures to use exterior materials that match the principal building. Separately, the city's vehicle rules limit outdoor storage of recreational equipment (recreational equipment up to 24 feet in length may be stored outdoors, and may not be parked or stored on a public street), and certain commercial vehicles are prohibited in residential zones under Sec. 24-245. Because a carport is regulated as an accessory structure rather than as a stand-alone allowed use, homeowners should confirm with the Planning Division whether a proposed carport meets the material, setback and placement standards before purchasing or installing one.