Accessory Structures in Davenport, IA (2026)
5 verified accessory structures rules for Davenport, Iowa, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Davenport must allow one ADU per single-family lot under Iowa's SF 592 (2025). City zoning caps ADUs at 1,000 square feet, detached in the rear yard. Owner-occupancy mandates are barred by state law.
Davenport ADU / Accessory Dwelling Rules
Some RestrictionsDavenport Municipal Code Chapter 17.08 (Uses — Accessory Dwelling Units)
No accessory dwelling unit may exceed 1,000 square feet in gross floor area.
Shed Rules
Davenport exempts one-story sheds up to 120 square feet of roof area from a building permit, but they must still meet zoning setbacks. Only one shed is allowed per lot.
Davenport Shed & Outbuilding Rules
Few RestrictionsDavenport Municipal Code Title 15, Buildings and Construction (building permit exemptions)
One-story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses are permitted if the projected roof area does not exceed 120 square feet and is located on the property in compliance with zoning regulations, building code setback requirements and/or trailer court regulations.
Garage Conversions
Davenport allows converting a detached garage into an accessory dwelling unit under Chapter 17.08 if the required off-street parking stays on site. A building permit and habitable-space code apply.
Davenport Garage Conversion Rules
Some RestrictionsDavenport Municipal Code Chapter 17.08 (Uses — Accessory Dwelling Units)
When a detached garage is converted to an accessory dwelling unit, the ground floor may be used for the accessory dwelling unit so long as the minimum number of required off-street parking spaces are maintained on site.
Carport Rules
Davenport allows one carport per lot, in the rear or interior side yard, with a building permit. Setback and lot-coverage limits apply under zoning Chapter 17.09.
Davenport Carport Construction Rules
Some RestrictionsTiny Homes
Davenport has no separate tiny-home zoning. A foundation-built tiny house is a dwelling under the building code; the ADU path (Chapter 17.08) allows a detached unit up to 1,000 square feet. Homes on wheels are treated as RVs.