El Paso County, CO Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)
Shed permit rules in El Paso County, CO, 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 size
- 500 sq ft
- Max height
- 12 feet
- Enclosed sides allowed
- one, if abutting house
- Screening below 60 in.
- not allowed
- Governing code
- LDC § 5.2.15.5
Summary
El Paso County caps carports built in front or side yard setbacks at 500 square feet and 12 feet tall, requires them over an approved driveway, and limits enclosed sides under the Land Development Code.
Carports shall not exceed 500 square feet and shall not exceed 12 feet at the highest point.
B. Location and Access. Carports must be located over an approved driveway access and/or located in the area between an approved driveway access and the nearest side yard property line. Entry into a carport must be made from an approved driveway access.
The PCD Director may approve an alternate location provided the proposed location meets the purpose of this Section.
C. Side panels and/or screening limited.
1. Carports may have one enclosed side only if the enclosed side abuts the principal structure.
2. Carports shall not have side panels or screening in the area between grade level and 60 inches above grade level.
D. Materials Used.
· Carports shall be made of wood and/or coated metal to prevent corrosion and shall be compatible in color with the body or trim of the primary structure. Roofing materials such as asphalt, clay, and slate are allowed.
· Carports shall not be made of non-durable or flexible materials, including, but not limited to,
Full Breakdown
Carports built in a front or side yard setback in unincorporated El Paso County cannot exceed 500 square feet or 12 feet at the highest point. They must sit over an approved driveway access, with entry made from that access, and only one side may be enclosed if it abuts the main house. Panels or screening between grade level and 60 inches above grade are prohibited, and materials are limited to wood or coated metal with asphalt, clay or slate roofing: canvas, plastic and tent-like materials are barred. The Planning and Community Development Director can approve an alternate location.
Violations & Fines
Carports that don't meet the size, height, placement or material standards violate the Land Development Code and can be ordered brought into compliance or removed by the county.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big can a carport be in unincorporated El Paso County?
Can I enclose my carport?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in El Paso County
How El Paso County compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·Compare El Paso County to another location·View the Colorado accessory structures overview
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