How Shreveport Handles Accessory Structures: A Practical Guide

Shreveport maintains 38 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 Shreveport falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Carport Rules

Shreveport's Unified Development Code Section 7.3 (Accessory Structures and Uses) limits residential carports to 20 feet in length and 10 feet in height. Carports must sit over a driveway, be open on at least two sides, and be permanent construction. They are permitted only in the interior side, corner side, or rear yard.

Key details: Code: UDC Section 7.3. Max Length: 20 feet. Max Height: 10 feet. Allowed Yards: Interior side, corner side, rear. Required Openness: Open on 2+ sides.

Building a carport in the front yard, exceeding the 20-foot length or 10-foot height limit, enclosing more than two sides without converting to a permitted garage, or installing a fabric or tent carport as a permanent structure are violations of UDC Section 7.3 enforced by the Shreveport-Caddo MPC and Property Standards. Code enforcement can require removal or modification, and unpermitted construction triggers stop-work orders and after-the-fact permit penalties.

ADU Rules

Shreveport permits accessory dwelling units in certain zoning districts under the Unified Development Code. ADUs must comply with setback and lot coverage requirements.

Key details: Status: Allowed in certain zones. Permit: Building permit required. Setbacks: Must meet zoning requirements. Parking: May be required per zone.

Unpermitted ADUs face code enforcement. Units must be brought into compliance or removed.

Shed Rules

Small sheds under 200 square feet may not require a building permit in Shreveport. Larger structures need permits and must meet setback requirements.

Key details: No Permit: Under 200 sq ft typically. Setbacks: Must comply with zoning. Utilities: Separate permit for electrical/plumbing. Easements: Cannot build in easements.

Unpermitted structures exceeding thresholds face code enforcement. Structures in easements must be removed.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Shreveport gives residents more flexibility on shed rules.

Garage Conversions

Shreveport allows garage conversions with a building permit. The converted space must meet building code standards for habitable rooms. Parking requirements may apply.

Key details: Permit: Building permit required. Parking: Replacement may be required. Standards: Habitable room codes apply. Systems: HVAC, plumbing, electrical permits.

Unpermitted conversions face code enforcement requiring retroactive permits or restoration to garage use.

The Bottom Line

Shreveport'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 Shreveport is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Shreveport's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.