Snohomish County, WA Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)
Shed permit rules in Snohomish County, WA, 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
- Carport definition
- SCC 30.91C.050
- Setback over 2,400 sq ft
- 15 feet
- Setback over 4,000 sq ft
- 20 feet
- Special setback section
- SCC 30.23.110
- Small structures
- Standard zone setbacks
Summary
In unincorporated Snohomish County a carport is an accessory structure used to cover vehicles or boats. Detached garages and storage structures over 2,400 square feet must sit at least 15 feet from external property lines; over 4,000 square feet, at least 20 feet.
Detached accessory or non-accessory storage structures and private garages with building footprints over 2,400 square feet must be at least 15 feet from any external property line; provided, that parcels abutting open space tracts shall have a five-foot setback from the open space. Storage structures and private garages over 4,000 square feet in size must be set back at least 20 feet from any external property line; provided, that parcels abutting open space tracts shall have a five-foot setback from the open space.
(21) RESERVED for future use.
(22) Studio. All buildings must be at least 20 feet from any other lot in a residential, multiple-family, or rural zone. The hearing examiner may require an additional setback distance when necessary to maintain compatibility of the proposed building with residential uses on adjoining properties.
(23) Swimming or Wading Pool. The pool must be at least five feet from any property line.
(24) Tavern. The use must be at least 500 feet from the external property lines of all public school grounds and public parks or playgrounds.
(25) Utility Structures. All structures must be at least 20 feet from any other lot in a residential zone.
(26) Personal Wireless Service Facilities.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through legislation passed August 12, 2026).
Full Breakdown
SCC 30.91C.050 defines a carport as a structure used to cover or protect motor vehicles, recreational vehicles, or boats owned or operated by the occupants of the main building. Carports and detached garages are accessory structures subject to zoning setbacks. Under SCC 30.23.110, detached accessory or non-accessory storage structures and private garages with footprints over 2,400 square feet must be at least 15 feet from any external property line, and those over 4,000 square feet at least 20 feet (parcels abutting open-space tracts get a five-foot setback). Smaller structures follow the standard zone setbacks in the bulk matrix.
Violations & Fines
A carport or garage placed within required setbacks is a code violation; the county may require relocation, removal, or a variance, with civil penalties for noncompliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a carport?
How far must a large garage be from the line?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Snohomish County
How Snohomish County compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·Compare Snohomish County to another location·View the Washington accessory structures overview
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