Carport Rules: Acworth vs Smyrna

How close to my property line can I build a carport in Acworth?

Acworth Chapter 73 requires accessory structures, including carports, to sit at least 5 feet from any side or rear lot line and to be located to the side or rear of the principal dwelling. On a corner lot, the carport cannot be closer to any right-of-way than the main house. Confirm any setback specific to your zoning district with the Development Department at 770-974-2032 before applying for a permit.

Can I use my carport for general storage in Acworth?

Only in a limited way. Acworth's zoning ordinance states that unenclosed carports and front porches may not be used to store any materials other than firewood or recyclable materials inside a city-approved container. Anything beyond that, such as boxes, furniture, or appliances kept in an open carport, can trigger code compliance enforcement.

Can I build a detached carport in my front yard in Smyrna?

No. Smyrna Zoning Ordinance §501.2 bars detached accessory structures - including carports - from required front or side yards. A detached carport must be on the same lot as the principal home, set back at least 5 feet from the rear lot line in residential districts, and outside the front-yard setback line. An attached carport is treated as part of the principal structure and must respect that home's normal front-yard setback.

Do I need a permit to put up a metal or fabric carport in Smyrna?

For a permanent metal carport, yes - accessory structures larger than 200 square feet or taller than one story require a building permit from the Smyrna Building Division (smyrnaga.portal.opengov.com), with a $125 minimum fee. Section 501.11 also prohibits portable structures with wheels or axles, so wheeled or fabric pop-up carports are not permitted as long-term accessory structures in residential zones.

How big can a carport be in Smyrna?

On parcels under 5 acres, a detached accessory structure can be up to 15 feet tall and its footprint cannot exceed one-fourth of the principal home's square footage (Zoning Ordinance §501.11). On parcels 5 acres or larger, up to 5 accessory structures are allowed with 20-foot spacing and heights up to the underlying district maximum (§501.12).