Carport Rules: Fullerton vs Midway City

Do I need a permit to build a carport in Fullerton?

Yes. The Building and Safety Division requires a building permit for the structure, and any electrical work needs a separate trade permit. Setbacks come from FMC 15.17.050.

How close can my carport sit to the property line?

An attached or freestanding carport or patio cover must be at least 5 feet from any rear lot line and 3 feet from any side lot line that abuts a residential property under FMC 15.17.050.

Are small detached carports exempt from setbacks?

An accessory building under 600 square feet and 10 feet or less in height at the property line is exempt from the main-building side and rear setbacks if drainage stays on-site and the structure meets fire-separation rules. Larger or taller structures must meet main-building setbacks.

Where do I confirm my zone's specific carport rules?

Confirm zone-specific carport, parking, and ADU-replacement parking rules with Fullerton Building and Safety at (714) 738-6553 or the Planning Division at (714) 738-6547 before applying.

Can I build a detached carport in my rear or side yard in unincorporated Orange County?

Yes. Section 7-9-70.3(d)(3) of the Orange County Codified Ordinances allows detached garages and carports to be placed any place within the required rear or interior side setback area, except within the corner-visibility zones where fences and walls are limited to 3.5 feet under Section 7-9-64. The carport must still meet the 10 ft by 20 ft minimum stall size and be permitted under the adopted California Building Code.

How much driveway space do I need in front of a carport?

Section 7-9-70.3(c)(2) requires 28 feet of unobstructed maneuvering area, measured from the outward end of the parking stall, in front of a carport. That requirement may be reduced by up to 4 feet in some configurations under Section 7-9-70.3(c)(4). For attached or detached side-entry garages, the unobstructed area required is 30 feet under Section 7-9-70.3(c)(1).

Can I convert my existing carport to an ADU?

Yes. Section 7-9-90(a)(2) of the Codified Ordinances allows conversion of an existing accessory structure into an ADU, and Section 7-9-90(d)(3) provides that no replacement parking is required when a carport is converted to or removed for an ADU. The conversion is processed ministerially under Government Code 65852.2 and must comply with the California Building Code as adopted under Title 7.