How New Orleans Handles Accessory Structures: A Practical Guide
New Orleans maintains 139 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 of those deal specifically with accessory structures. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where New Orleans falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
ADU Rules
New Orleans permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in most residential districts under the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance. A detached ADU is an accessory structure, so within a required yard it is capped at 14 feet tall and must sit at least 3 feet from any lot line.
Key details: Governing code: Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance. Height in required yard: 14 feet maximum. Setback from lot line: 3 feet minimum. Rear-yard coverage cap: 40% of required rear yard. Permit: Safety and Permits required.
Zoning and building violations are handled by the Department of Safety and Permits; unpermitted structures can be red-tagged, fined, and ordered removed or brought into compliance.
Shed & Carport Rules
A backyard shed is a detached accessory structure under the CZO. Within a required yard it may be no more than 14 feet tall and must sit at least 3 feet from any lot line, and all rear-yard accessory structures together may cover no more than 40% of the required
Key details: Max height in yard: 14 feet. Setback: 3 feet from lot line. Rear-yard coverage: 40% maximum. Governing article: CZO 21.6. Permit: Usually required.
Sheds that exceed height, coverage, or setback limits or lack a permit can be cited by Safety and Permits and ordered removed or corrected.
Garage Conversions
Converting a garage into living space is a change of use regulated by the CZO. Converting it to a separate dwelling is treated as an accessory dwelling unit, so it must meet the accessory-structure standards and the ADU use standard, plus a building permit and off-street parking review.
Key details: Governing code: Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance. As accessory structure: 14 ft / 3 ft setback (21.6). Separate unit: Treated as ADU. Permit: Building permit required. Historic districts: VCC/HDLC review.
Unpermitted conversions are code violations subject to fines, red-tag orders, and required restoration or compliance through Safety and Permits.
The Bottom Line
New Orleans'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 New Orleans is broadly strict or permissive.
This guide is based on New Orleans's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.