Unlike garages, carports aren’t considered enclosed or liveable space, so it’s usually easier to get local permits to build one. The guidelines are generally less restrictive. The local permitting agency is more likely to approve a carport that will be built on a level spot that doesn’t interfere with neighbors’ views or lines of sight to the street. To obtain a building permit, homeowners need to provide the city with a site plan of the proposed carport that shows its size and setbacks from property lines. The permit fee is based on the valuation of the structure plus an issuance fee, and generally ranges from $100 to $300.