How Southaven Handles Accessory Structures: A Practical Guide

Southaven maintains 33 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 Southaven falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

ADU Rules

Southaven Code of Ordinances Section 13-13 (Storage and Accessory Buildings) expressly prohibits using accessory or temporary buildings for dwelling purposes. Detached accessory buildings cannot exceed 50% of the heated square footage of the principal structure or occupy more than 30% of the rear yard, are limited to one story and 20 feet in height (slab to highest roof point), and must comply with rear/side setbacks of at least 5 feet when located 10 feet or more from the main building.

Key details: Governing Section: Code of Ord. §13-13. Dwelling Use: Prohibited in accessory/storage buildings. Size Limit: 50% of heated principal structure. Rear Yard Coverage: 30% maximum. Height Limit: 20 ft, one story.

Constructing an accessory building without a permit, exceeding the 50% / 30% size limits, exceeding 20 feet in height, or using the structure for dwelling purposes are zoning code violations under Title XIII enforced by Municipal Code Enforcement. Penalties may include stop-work orders, removal orders, and fines. Continued occupancy of a non-permitted dwelling unit can trigger building code action through the Building Official.

This is one of the stricter rules in Southaven's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Garage Conversions

Southaven's zoning ordinance prohibits using accessory or storage buildings for dwelling purposes, and any conversion of a garage to living space must comply with the Mississippi-adopted IRC, retain required two off-street parking spaces, and obtain a building permit from the Southaven Building Department before work begins.

Key details: Code: Chapter 13 Zoning + IRC. Detached Living Use: Prohibited. Permit: Required for conversion. Parking Replacement: Maintain 2 spaces. Accessory Size Cap: 50% of heated principal.

Occupying a converted garage or detached accessory building as a dwelling unit, or completing a garage conversion without a building permit, violates Chapter 13 and the adopted building code. Code Enforcement can issue stop-work orders, require restoration to permitted use, and refer unsafe occupancy to municipal court.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Southaven actively enforces its garage conversions requirements.

Shed Rules

Southaven regulates sheds and outbuildings through local building and zoning codes. Small sheds under 120 to 200 square feet may be exempt from permit requirements in many municipalities.

Key details: Permit Exempt: Under 120 to 200 sq ft. Setback: 3 to 5 ft from property line. Habitation: Prohibited. Flood Zone: Additional rules apply.

Unpermitted structure: $100 to $300 fine. Structures violating setbacks may require relocation or removal. Habitation of sheds results in immediate enforcement action.

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

The Bottom Line

Southaven is tougher than many cities when it comes to accessory structures. Out of the 3 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Southaven, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

These rules come from Southaven's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.