Hello, I have a carport/overhang on my house and am interested in the possibility of enclosing it so trying to figure out whats feasible. Would like to utilize the space to store/work on a project car and would really not want it just sitting out under the over hang.

In order to turn it into a garage instead of carport would I need to have it redesigned as a whole new structure or would I be able to just build off of what exists? If I need to get all engineered plans and permits and increase taxes, that is not going to happen right now.


What might be some other possibilities? If it all would have to be redone what is the possibly of putting a vinyl fence gate across the front so at least the view is blocked off? The electric meter is several feet back under the overhang the the fence would have to be behind that right? electric meter cannot be behind the fence? I am planning on putting a fence up across the front off the carport anyway so would just continue off that.



Thanks for any help
-Matt

 

Here I have seen carports with a garage door facing the street. How high is the roof at the lowest point? Would you have at least seven feet if you filled in at the top to square off the top?

 

Do you know if the carport was originally permitted? Was it built with the house or added on at a later date? More than likely you'll need a permit to do the work. Anytime you make improvements there is the possibility it will affect your property tax bill. Swinging doors or gate is feasible but the POCO will want unhindered access to the meter.

 

Your local AHJ will be the one who determines what kind of permits, designs, engineering input is required. That varies considerably from area to area. As Ray mentioned it looks like the roof maybe a little low to allow sufficient space to put in a garage door.

 

It was not originally part of the house but did get a permit when added.

At the lowest point the top is 6' 8" but it isn't until 9' from the wall that it becomes less than 7'.

Has anyone seen a carport that has fence gate across the front,or in my case would need to be recessed back several feet till behind the power meter?

Can I enclose the other two sides with the gate and still be considered a carport? Or at least the one far side?

 

Not common but I've seen a few carports that had a gate that either restricted access or more/less hid the carport from view. You'd need to talk to your light company about the meter. They generally want unhindered access, an unlocked gate might be ok. The rest is between you and the permit office.