Apple Valley, MN Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)

Section 155.332 governs sheds, detached garages and other accessory buildings on residential lots in the City of Apple Valley, Minnesota. It is unlawful to install, construct, erect, alter, revise, reconstruct or move an outdoor accessory storage building larger than 200 square feet of enclosed area on a residentially zoned lot without a building permit. The application goes to the city on its form and includes drawings, plans and specifications detailed enough for the Building Inspector to check building codes, an illustration of how the building is anchored to the ground, which the Inspector must approve, and any other information the city requires.

Placement rules are specific. An accessory building goes in the side or rear yard, except that in an R district a detached garage can sit in the front yard under the applicable front yard setback. A structure of 144 square feet or less stays at least five feet from any side or rear lot line. A larger one stays at least 10 feet from the rear lot line and follows the side setback for its district. Next to a public street right-of-way, any accessory building, whatever its size, stays at least 20 feet from the side lot line. A detached building sits at least six feet from the dwelling unit unless fire protection of the exterior wall(s) and roof is provided. In an R district no accessory building comes before the principal building, with exceptions for a fence, a temporary construction office and a residential garage used for storage.

Size is capped at 16 feet in height and 750 square feet in area (§ 155.332(G)). In R-1, R-2 and R-3 districts, § 155.053 adds a count limit: one accessory structure in addition to any garage, held to 144 square feet when a detached garage exists, and on a lot without a detached garage no more than two structures, one up to 750 square feet and one up to 144. Roof area counts when the roof edge projects more than 24 inches past a wall or support post.

No accessory building sits in a public utility easement unless the city or the utility holding the easement approves, and the Building Inspector can refer a location question to the City Council. Exterior surfaces and roofs must be protected and maintained to the residential standard of the Minnesota State Building Code.