Accessory Buildings / Structures
Accessory structures are incidental to the main structure or building, and are located on the same lot. Accessory structures include things like swimming pools, garages, sheds, carports, and free-standing solar energy collectors. 

Requirements
Detached accessory buildings and/or structures are allowed in all zoning districts in side and rear yards. Because City ordinances regulate their setbacks, size, and location, they must meet specific requirements.

Setbacks:

• Side yard setbacks for all accessory buildings and/or structures are the same as required for the principal building side yard setbacks for the specific zoning district. See setback requirements by zoning district
• Rear yard setbacks for all accessory buildings and/or structures are a minimum six feet (6) feet for all zoning districts. 
• Detached accessory buildings and/or structures must be setback a minimum (10) feet from the building wall of the principle structure facing a road or a street.
• Detached accessory buildings and/or structures must not be closer than five (5) feet to the principal building or structure.
• Detached accessory buildings and/or structures with a vehicular entry door located in the wall facing an alley must be twenty (20) feet from the alley right-of-way line. 
• Attached accessory buildings and/or structures must conform to the setbacks for the principal building.

Size & Location:

• Accessory buildings and/or structures must be smaller (in dimension and area) than the principle structure.
• Accessory buildings and/or structures must be located on the same lot as the principle structure. 
• Accessory buildings and/or structures must not be built between the front of a primary structure and the public street right-of-way line.
• Accessory buildings and/or structures must not be built on a lot until the construction of the principal building has started.
• You may not use an accessory building and/or structure unless the principal building on the lot is also being used. 

When Is a Building Permit Not Required?
A building permit is not required for accessory buildings that are 200 square feet or smaller. To apply for a building permit for an accessory building greater than 200 square feet, please see information under Building Permits, and refer to Code of Ordinances 165.12