How High Point Handles Accessory Structures: A Practical Guide
High Point maintains 110 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with accessory structures. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where High Point falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Shed & Carport Rules
A backyard shed on a High Point single-family or duplex lot must sit at least 5 feet off the side and rear lot lines, stay behind the house's front building line, and stay under 600 square feet (or 50% of the house's floor area) on lots smaller than 2 acres.
Key details: Side/rear setback: 5 feet. Alley/rear setback: 10 feet. Size cap (under 2 ac): 600 sq ft or 50%. Location: Behind front building line.
Placing a shed inside the 5-foot side/rear setback, ahead of the house's front building line, or over the size cap for the lot violates § 4.4.4.D and can bring a zoning correction notice or civil penalty.
ADU Rules
High Point allows one accessory dwelling unit per single-family lot, capped at 2 bedrooms, sharing the principal home's address, driveway and utilities, under Development Ordinance § 4.4.5(A).
Key details: ADUs per lot: 1 maximum. Bedroom cap: 2 bedrooms maximum. In-structure size cap: 30% of gross floor area. Address rule: Same address as main house.
Building an ADU without meeting these standards, a separate address, more than 2 bedrooms, a street-facing entrance, or separate ownership, is a zoning violation subject to a stop-work order or removal.
The Bottom Line
High Point's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming High Point is broadly strict or permissive.
This guide is based on High Point's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.