Do You Need a Carport Permit? Everything to Know About Carport Building Permits

Wondering if you need a permit for your new carport? You’re not alone. Let’s break down what qualifies as a permanent structure, when a permit is required, what happens if you skip it, and how to keep your project headache-free.

Are Metal Carports Considered Permanent Structures?

This is one of the most common questions we get—and the answer isn’t always straightforward. A metal carport can be either a permanent or non-permanent structure, depending on how and where it’s built.

For example, if you install a 20x20 metal carport in Charlotte, North Carolina, and it’s freestanding with no concrete foundation, it might be considered a temporary or “accessory” structure. But if that same carport is attached to your home or installed with permanent footings, it could be classified as a permanent structure, which typically means you’ll need a carport building permit.

What’s considered permanent varies by city or county, so always check your local guidelines first.

Do You Need a Permit for a Carport?

In many cases, yes. Even a seemingly simple structure like a carport can fall under your city’s building and zoning regulations. Whether your carport is freestanding or attached to your home, a permit might be required—especially if it’s on the larger side, includes a concrete foundation, or is located close to your property line.

Think of it this way: if your carport is meant to last, your city probably wants to ensure it’s built safely and in the right location. That’s what the permit process is all about.

How Do You Know If You Need a Carport Permit?

There are a few things that usually tip the scale toward needing a permit.

If your carport is particularly large (often over 500 square feet), uses a concrete slab, or is attached to your house, there's a good chance your city will require a permit. The same goes for carports that sit near a property line, road, or another structure, as these can raise zoning concerns.

Even a freestanding carport—one that’s not physically connected to your home—may still require approval if it’s anchored or semi-permanent in nature.

When in doubt? Always call your local building department. A quick conversation can save you from fines, delays, or even being forced to take your carport down later.

Can You Build a Carport Without a Permit? What Happens If You Do?

Skipping the permit might feel like a shortcut—but it’s a risky one. If local inspectors catch wind of an unpermitted carport, you could face fines, a stop-work order, or even be required to remove the structure entirely.

It could also come back to haunt you when it’s time to sell your home. Unpermitted additions can raise red flags during inspections, and buyers may walk away or demand costly repairs.

And here’s something many homeowners don’t think about: insurance. If your carport is damaged in a storm and it wasn’t built with a permit, your policy may not cover the repairs.

What Does a Carport Permit Cost?

Permit fees vary, but they’re usually more affordable than most people expect—especially compared to the cost of fixing a mistake.

Depending on your location, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $500 for a permit. The price can go up if engineering drawings or inspections are required, but even then, it’s a relatively small investment for peace of mind.

What’s the Process for Getting a Carport Building Permit?

Every city and municipality is a little different, but the general process is fairly straightforward:

First, you’ll want to check with your local zoning and building departments to understand the specific rules in your area. Then, you’ll likely need to submit a set of basic plans for your carport—this might include a drawing of where the structure will sit on your property, along with dimensions and materials.

Once everything is submitted, you may be required to pay a fee and wait for approval. Some locations also require an inspection either before or after the build is complete.

While the process might seem like a hassle at first, it’s far better to take care of it upfront than deal with potential penalties later.

What About Carport Design and Placement?

The design of your carport plays a big role in whether you’ll need a permit. Larger or taller structures often come with stricter requirements. Similarly, carports made of metal may be treated differently than those built with wood, depending on local code.

Your carport’s placement also matters. Most municipalities have setback rules that dictate how close you can build to your property line, the street, or existing structures. Violating those setbacks is one of the fastest ways to get a red flag during permitting or inspections.

So when planning your build, it’s important to think about more than just looks—you need to design with local rules in mind.

Do HOAs Have a Say in Carport Permits?

Yes—if you live in a neighborhood governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA), their rules could be just as important as your city’s. Some HOAs don’t allow visible carports at all, while others require them to meet specific design and placement standards.

Always review your HOA’s guidelines before you start construction. Even with a city-approved permit, the HOA can still fine you or require changes if you don’t meet their standards.

Want to Avoid the Headaches? Work With a Pro.

Getting a carport permit doesn’t have to be stressful. The easiest way to simplify the process is to work with a company that knows the ropes.

At Legacy Carports, we’ve helped countless homeowners navigate carport permits, zoning regulations, and build code compliance. We’ll walk you through every step—so your carport is built to last and fully legal.

If you’re going the DIY route, we’re still here to help. Our team is happy to answer questions and point you toward the right resources for your location.

Final Thoughts

Installing a metal carport is one of the smartest ways to protect your vehicle and increase the functionality of your property—but it pays to do it right. Understanding when a carport building permit is required, how to get one, and what rules apply in your area can save you time, money, and legal trouble.

By following your local requirements and working with a knowledgeable installer, you’ll avoid surprises and end up with a carport that’s not only sturdy and stylish—but fully up to code.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s talk! Whether you’re planning to build a freestanding carport or attach one to your home, our team is here to help you through the permitting process and beyond.