Coeur d'Alene, ID Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)

Sheds are governed by the accessory structure rules in Article VII of chapter 17.06 and the yard rules in Article V. The core setback is § 17.06.425, which covers accessory structures located in the rear twenty five feet (25') of a lot. All accessory structures shall be set back from the side lot line at least five feet (5'), or three feet (3') when the roof does not slope toward the side property line. The rear line works the same way: five feet (5'), or three feet (3') if the roof does not slope toward the rear property line. Lots with an alley in the rear can put an accessory structure three feet (3') from the rear property line regardless of how the roof is sloped. A detached accessory structure can also encroach up to three feet (3') beyond the twenty five foot (25') rear yard, provided its height does not exceed eighteen feet (18').

Whether a building counts as a shed at all is decided by § 17.06.630. A structure is accessory, and is not held to the principal structure's site standards, if it is detached and separated from the principal structure by six feet (6') or more; if it is attached by a breezeway roof with an intervening space of five feet (5') or more that is open on at least two (2) sides; or if it is a private storage garage, fuel storage shed, private noncommercial greenhouse, or a child's playhouse. A structure joined to the house by a common wall, or not separated by more than six feet (6'), is treated as part of the principal structure. A structure with sleeping or living accommodations must instead meet the accessory dwelling unit requirements, so a shed converted to a bedroom is an ADU question.

Section 17.06.640 subjects all accessory structures other than accessory dwelling units and caretaker's units to the height regulations of article IV and the spacing and setback regulations of article V of chapter 17.06. Under § 17.06.495 C, the usual accessory buildings commonly appurtenant to the principal structure, such as private storage garages, fuel storage sheds, private noncommercial greenhouses and a child's playhouse, can be erected within a rear yard. The sections quoted here set no square-foot cap for a shed.