Can I build a detached garage in Rochester Hills?

Yes, with limits. Accessory buildings are permitted by right with one-family homes (§ 138-4.300), and a detached garage is an accessory structure (§ 138-13.101). The main rules:

• Location. Side or rear yard only, never the front yard (§ 138-10.102.A).
• Setbacks. At least 5 feet from side and rear lot lines on lots under 2 acres, at least 20 feet on lots of 2 acres or more, and never in a required side yard (§ 138-10.102.B).
• Height. One story. The cap is 14 feet with a roof pitch under 4/12, or 16 feet with a steeper pitch (§ 138-10.102.C).
• Size. Combined detached accessory floor area is capped by lot size, starting at 1,000 square feet for lots under one acre (§ 138-10.102.A).

A garage within 10 feet of the house counts as attached and follows the house setbacks instead (§ 138-10.101).