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Lakewood · Building on your lot

Sheds, garages and other accessory structures in Lakewood

Lakewood sets a 3-foot setback for a garage or non-habitable accessory building, and 4 feet for a habitable one unless state law modifies it.

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Key points

  • Accessory setbacks: Lakewood sets a 3-foot setback for a garage or non-habitable accessory building, and 4 feet for a habitable one unless state law modifies it.

Each rule below links to the section of the Lakewood Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Lakewood's code says

Lakewood code What Lakewood's code adds
Side and rear setback
  • At least 3 feet from the rear or side lot line.
    Applies: Private garages and other non-living accessory buildings.
    § 9322.7 · code text
    No private garage or other non-habitable accessory building shall be located less than three (3) feet from the rear or side lot line
  • At least 1 foot from the side lot line.
    Applies: Garages and other non-living accessory buildings in the rear 50% of the lot, where the side lot line does not border a street.
    § 9322.7 · code text
    except that any structure used as a private garage or other non-habitable accessory building and located within the rear fifty percent (50%) of the lot may be located no less than one (1) foot from the side lot line, which does not abut a street.
  • At least 4 feet from rear and side lot lines.
    Applies: Accessory buildings for living in, including ADUs, unless state law waives or changes this.
    § 9322.7 · code text
    Any accessory building used or designed for human habitation, including an ADU, shall be located no less than four (4) feet from any rear and/or side lot lines, unless otherwise waived or modified by state law.
  • At least 5 feet from side and rear property lines.
    Applies: Canopies in the rear yard.
    § 9322.7 · code text
    Such structures shall be located no less than five (5) feet from the side and rear property lines and shall be subject to all standards applicable to accessory structures.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

How big can a shed or accessory building be in Lakewood?

Lakewood sets a 3-foot setback for a garage or non-habitable accessory building, and 4 feet for a habitable one unless state law modifies it.

General information, not legal advice.

Ask about a specific Lakewood property

Ask GoCodebook how Lakewood's sheds, garages and other accessory structures rules apply to your situation and get an answer that cites the section.

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Lakewood Municipal Code — full text