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Accessory Structures in New Orleans, LA (2026)

3 verified accessory structures rules for New Orleans, Louisiana, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

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.

Accessory Dwelling Units in New Orleans

Some Restrictions

New Orleans CZO 21.6.A

When detached accessory structures are located within a required yard, structures are limited to a maximum height of fourteen (14) feet, unless otherwise permitted or limited by this Ordinance.

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

Shed Rules in New Orleans

Some Restrictions

New Orleans CZO 21.6.A

The combined square footage of all detached accessory structures located in the required rear yard is limited to no more than forty percent (40%) of the required rear yard area.

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.

Garage Conversions in New Orleans

Some Restrictions

New Orleans CZO 21.6.A

Detached accessory structures shall be located a minimum of three (3) feet from any lot line, unless otherwise permitted or limited by this Ordinance.