Woodbury, MN Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

Garages in Woodbury are governed by the Chapter 24 residential accessory standards. Under those standards (mirrored as Sec. 24-281), an attached garage shall not exceed 1,000 square feet or a set percentage of the main floor area, and must comply with the underlying zoning district's setback requirements. A detached garage likewise shall not exceed 1,000 square feet or the percentage cap, must be set back at least five feet from side and rear property lines, may not have a wall height exceeding 12 feet, is limited to one story, and generally may not be located in front of the principal building. Exterior building materials of a detached garage must match the exterior materials of the principal building. Converting a garage to living space changes the building's use and habitable area and triggers building-permit review for items such as egress, insulation, heating and electrical, and it may affect off-street parking that the zoning code expects a single-family home to provide. Because converting an attached garage to a room can reduce required parking and create a habitable space, homeowners should confirm with the Building and Planning staff that the conversion is allowed and what permits apply. Driveway widths are also regulated, with driveways required to be a minimum of 10 feet wide and a maximum of 30 feet at the right-of-way line.