Smyrna, GA Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)

Section 501.11 of the Smyrna Zoning Ordinance, Appendix A, limits accessory structures to one per lot. The size cannot exceed one-fourth the total square footage of the principal building, and the height cannot exceed 15 feet. The structure must be built with materials and style similar to the principal building or any material and style commonly associated with an accessory structure. Buildings transported with or without axles or wheels, or built on a metal frame for transport, including a receiver tongue, cannot serve as an accessory use or structure.

Section 501.6 sets a rear setback: no garage or other accessory building closer than five feet to a rear lot line in a residential district. Where a nonresidential lot adjoins the rear of a residential lot, a nonresidential accessory building must stay at least 25 feet from the residential property line. Section 501.2 keeps accessory structures out of a required front or side yard, and section 501.1 puts them on the same lot as the principal building. Under section 501.4, no accessory building can be constructed until construction of the principal building has commenced. A building attached to the principal building by breezeway or passageway must meet the yard requirements of the principal building under section 501.5.

Section 501.3 bars renting or occupying residential garages, greenhouses or workshops for gain, except short-term rental units allowed under Article IX of Chapter 22. Parcels of five acres or larger are not subject to these restrictions under section 501.12: up to five accessory structures are allowed, each at least 20 feet from any other structure and at least 100 feet from any property line, within the height limits of the zoning district. Section 1302 requires a building permit from the building inspector before a structure is erected.