How High Point Handles Accessory Structures: A Practical Guide

High Point maintains 39 local ordinances across all categories, and 4 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.

ADU Rules

Accessory dwelling units in High Point are regulated by the Development Ordinance. ADUs may be permitted in certain residential districts with restrictions on size, height, setbacks, and owner occupancy.

Key details: Permit: Building permit required. Owner Occupancy: Typically required. Size: Limited relative to primary dwelling. Parking: Additional spaces may be required.

Unpermitted ADUs can result in stop-work orders, fines, and orders to remove or legalize the structure.

Carport Rules

High Point regulates carports as accessory structures under Section 4.4 of the Development Ordinance. A residential accessory structure must be set back at least 5 feet from side and rear lot lines (10 feet along an alley or rear lot abutting a street on through/reverse-frontage lots), must sit behind the front building line of the principal dwelling on lots under 2 acres, and the combined area of all accessory buildings cannot exceed 50 percent of the principal dwelling's gross floor area or 600 square feet, whichever is greater.

Key details: Governing Code: High Point Development Ord. Sec. 4.4 (Accessory Structures and Uses). Side/Rear Setback: 5 ft from side and rear lot lines (Sec. 4.4.4.D.1.a). Alley Setback: 10 ft from rear lot line abutting an alley (Sec. 4.4.4.D.1.d). Through/Reverse Lot: 10 ft from rear lot line abutting a street (Sec. 4.4.4.D.1.c). Front Yard Rule: Behind front building line on lots under 2 acres (Sec. 4.4.4.D.4.a).

A carport built without zoning approval, located in a required setback or easement, or exceeding the Section 4.4.4.D.4(b) size cap is subject to enforcement under Chapter 9 (Enforcement) of the Development Ordinance, including a notice of violation, civil penalties, and an order to remove or modify the structure. Building-code violations are enforced by the High Point Inspections and Permits Department under the NC Residential Code and may include stop-work orders, daily civil penalties under NCGS 160D-404, and required correction or removal.

Shed Rules

Sheds in High Point must comply with the Development Ordinance setback and size requirements. Small sheds under 120 square feet may not require a building permit but must meet placement requirements.

Key details: Permit Exempt: Under 120 sq ft may be exempt. Location: Rear or side yard. Setbacks: Must comply with zoning. Use: Storage only, not habitation.

Sheds in violation of setback or size rules result in Code Enforcement action requiring relocation or removal.

Garage Conversions

Converting a garage to living space in High Point requires a building permit and compliance with the NC Building Code for habitable space. Required parking must be maintained on the property.

Key details: Permit: Required. Parking: Must maintain required spaces. Building Code: NC Building Code applies. Inspections: Required for conversion.

Unpermitted conversions result in fines and orders to obtain permits or restore the garage.

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.