Accessory Structures in Franklin County, NC (2026)
2 rules for unincorporated Franklin County, North Carolina.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Unincorporated Franklin County allows one accessory dwelling unit per lot under UDC § 5.3.10, but only on lots with a single principal dwelling: no ADUs on duplexes, multi-family lots, or lots with a family care home, and the unit needs its own 20-foot separation from the main house plus septic sign-off from Environmental Health.
Franklin County Accessory Dwelling Unit Rule
Some RestrictionsFranklin County Unified Development Code § 5.3.10
2.Accessory Dwelling Unita.Residential lots developed with more than 1 dwelling unit shall not be permitted to develop accessory dwellings.b.Only 1 accessory dwelling unit shall be permitted per lot.c.The accessory dwelling unit shall not be served by a separate driveway from that of the principal dwelling unit.d.No accessory dwelling unit shall be permitted on a lot with a two-family duplex or...
Shed & Carport Rules
A shed or other detached accessory structure in unincorporated Franklin County needs the primary structure's permits already issued before it goes up, must stay at least 5 feet from side and rear lot lines and 20 feet from any street right-of-way, and generally cannot be taller than the principal structure under UDC § 5.3.10.
Franklin County Accessory Structure Setback Rule
Some RestrictionsFranklin County Unified Development Code § 5.3.10
3.Accessory Structurea.No accessory building or structure may be established on a lot prior to the issuance of all requisite permits and approvals for the primary structure or building on the lot.b.Accessory structures must adhere to the height regulations found in this Article.c.An accessory building sharing one or more common walls with the principal building shall be considered part of the p...
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