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New Orleans, LA Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Shed permit rules in New Orleans, LA, also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations, set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.

Key Facts

Max height in yard
14 feet
Setback
3 feet from lot line
Rear-yard coverage
40% maximum
Governing article
CZO 21.6
Permit
Usually required

Summary

A backyard shed is a detached accessory structure under the CZO. Within a required yard it may be no more than 14 feet tall and must sit at least 3 feet from any lot line, and all rear-yard accessory structures together may cover no more than 40% of the required

The combined square footage of all detached accessory structures located in the required rear yard is limited to no more than forty percent (40%) of the required rear yard area.

View official code

Full Breakdown

New Orleans regulates sheds through CZO Article 21.6, which applies citywide because the parish is the city. Detached accessory structures in a required yard are capped at 14 feet; those in the buildable area follow the district's principal-building height limit. The combined footprint of all detached accessory structures in the required rear yard is limited to 40% of that yard, and each must be set back at least 3 feet from any lot line (historic districts allow interior side/rear line placement in limited cases). A building permit is generally required; check district and overlay rules before building.

Violations & Fines

Sheds that exceed height, coverage, or setback limits or lack a permit can be cited by Safety and Permits and ordered removed or corrected.

Frequently Asked Questions

How close to the fence can my shed be?
A detached accessory structure must generally be at least 3 feet from any lot line, though historic districts allow limited interior side or rear lot-line placement.
Do I need a permit for a shed?
A building permit is generally required. Confirm your zoning district and any historic-district overlay with the Department of Safety and Permits.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in New Orleans

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All New Orleans rules

How New Orleans compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·Compare New Orleans to another location·View the Louisiana accessory structures overview

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