Maple Grove, MN Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

Maple Grove's zoning ordinance requires new single-family dwellings to have a garage with a capacity of at least two cars, not less than 20 feet wide by 24 feet deep, per the city's zoning provisions. This minimum two-car requirement is the key constraint on garage conversions: removing or converting required garage space into finished living area can put a home out of compliance with the minimum-garage standard. Garage and accessory-building size is also capped. In R-1, R-2 and R-3 districts, the total per-lot accessory-building allowance is 1,254 square feet, of which no individual detached structure may exceed 1,000 square feet; that 1,000 sq ft limit also applies to an attached garage, and the attached garage area is subtracted from the 1,254 sq ft total. Any conversion of garage space to habitable rooms is also building work that requires permits and must meet the Minnesota State Building Code for occupied space (egress, insulation, ventilation, smoke alarms). Homeowners considering converting a garage should confirm with Community & Economic Development (763-494-6040) and the Building Department (763-494-6060) that the home will still meet the minimum garage requirement and that permits are obtained.