Distance between the structure and property lines
You can only build an accessory structure when there is a main use building on your property. For residential uses, this typically means there needs to be a dwelling on the property. Generally, you cannot build an accessory building by itself on an otherwise vacant lot.
The outside wall of the accessory building is also required to be set back a specific distance from your property lines. The table below lists the minimum setback required for an accessory building based on its location on the property and its height.
Height of accessory structure |
0′–4′ |
4–9′ |
10′ |
11′ |
12′ |
13′ |
14′ |
15′ |
Rear yard |
0 |
0 |
1′ |
2′ |
3′ |
4′ |
5′ |
6′ |
Rear yard next to an alley in the rear yard |
1′ |
1′ |
1′ |
2′ |
3′ |
4′ |
5′ |
6′ |
Any yard next to a local street |
0 |
12′ |
12′ |
12′ |
12′ |
12′ |
12′ |
12′ |
Any yard next to a collector or arterial street (generally carries more traffic than local streets) |
0 |
20′ |
20′ |
20′ |
20′ |
20′ |
20′ |
20′ |
Interior side yard |
5′ |
5′ |
5′ |
5′ |
5′ |
5′ |
5′ |
5′ |
Interior side yard and the accessory structure is part of a fence |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Building code requires accessory structures that do not have a fire rating to be a minimum of three feet from the property line regardless of the structure’s height or location.