What are the rules for building a detached garage in Birmingham, MI?
A detached garage in Birmingham must sit in the rear open space, at least 3 feet from any lot line and at least 10 feet from the house (§ 4.03). It cannot be placed in the required front or side open space.
Key limits:
- Height: eave maximum 12 feet; pitched-roof midpoint maximum 15.5 feet in R1A and R1, 15 feet in R2, 14.5 feet in R3; flat roofs maximum 12 feet (§ 4.03).
- Size: the combined first-floor area of all accessory structures is capped at 10% of lot area or 600 square feet in R1A and R1, 550 in R2, 500 in R3, whichever is less (§ 4.03).
- The garage must stay shorter than the principal building, and no outdoor living areas are allowed above the first story (§ 4.03).
Questions about your lot go to the Planning Division at 248-530-1850.
Sources
Full text: Birmingham ordinance on enCodePlus. Applies to districts: R1A, R1, R2, R3.
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