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Chesapeake City

Chesapeake City, VA Permits for Metal Carports and Garages

Virginia

In Chesapeake, a metal carport needs a Building Permit, with plans and a site plan, and the Homeowner's Permit Guide lists no size exception. Your Chesapeake carport permit is filed through eBUILD, the city's online portal. Sheds are stricter here than the state minimum, since the city wants a permit for one regardless of size.


Permit office: City of Chesapeake Department of Development and Permits
Address: 306 Cedar Road, City Hall, 2nd Floor, Chesapeake, VA 23322
Official city page


When a permit is required

  • Carport, or enclosing one: permit, plans and site plan.
  • Attached or detached garage: permit.
  • Shed or accessory building over 256 square feet: Building Permit, plans and site plan.
  • Shed or accessory building 256 square feet and under: Zoning Permit and site plan.
  • Flood zone: Building Permit at any size.


Zoning and setbacks

The shed page sets a 5-foot rear setback and side setbacks of 6 to 20 feet by zoning district. A storage-only shed of 150 square feet or less and under 8.5 feet tall can sit 3 feet off the rear and sides. Corner and through lots follow different rules, and easements must stay clear.


What to bring

  • Building plans showing use, footing details, wall sections, and elevations.
  • HOA approval if your association requires it.
  • Farm Use Affidavit for a farm building.


Farm buildings

Farm buildings and structures are exempt from the building code under Code of Virginia ยง 36-99 and USBC Section 102.3. The city still asks for a Zoning Permit, a site plan, and a Farm Use Affidavit on a farm building.


Good to know

The listed setbacks don't account for overlays such as Chesapeake Bay Preservation Areas or planned unit developments, so those lots may face more limits. Buildings of 256 square feet or more also need a footing inspection, per the shed page. eBUILD runs around the clock.


Common questions

Do I need a permit for a carport in Chesapeake?
Yes. The city's permit list names carports with no size exception, so a Chesapeake carport permit needs plans and a site plan either way.


Do I need a permit for a metal garage or shed in Chesapeake?
Yes to both. A garage needs a permit, and sheds need one at every size. Small ones go through a Zoning Permit.


How close to the line can a metal building go?
Usually 5 feet at the rear, and 6 to 20 feet at the sides depending on your district. Ask staff to confirm for a carport or a corner lot.


Sources


Rules and fees change. Call the office to confirm before you order.


See the full Virginia permit guide for statewide rules, farm exemptions and wind and snow ratings.


Looking at buildings? See our metal carports, metal garages and metal buildings.


Ready to design your building?

Design it yourself in 3D with the button below, or call 919-725-8176 and we'll help you figure out what your county needs.

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