What Is a Detached Garage and How Do You Plan for It?

We love our extra spaces. In fact, around two-thirds of all housing units in America have a garage or carport. If you want your own space where you can tinker with projects, store stuff, or maybe set up that workshop you’ve always wanted, a detached garage is a great option for those with the space.

Unlike attached garages that share at least one wall with your home, detached garages stand completely separate from your main dwelling. This separation creates an escape for some alone time, but before you get carried away with plans, you need to do some planning. Navigating local building codes, choosing the right materials, and more require careful consideration. Size, location, utilities, and how this new structure will flow with your existing property; it all needs to be on the table.

Understanding detached garages

Unlike their attached counterparts, detached garages stand completely independent from your main house. They’re separate structures with their own foundation, walls, and roof system—essentially mini-buildings that exist on their own terms on your property.

The physical separation is the defining characteristic. These independent structures typically feature their own utility connections, including electricity and sometimes plumbing, depending on how elaborate you want to get. Most homeowners connect them to the main house visually through complementary design elements or physically via pathways, driveways, or sometimes decorative breezeways.

Without the constraints of needing to blend into your existing home structure, you’ve got the freedom to explore different architectural styles, heights, and configurations. The separation that defines detached garages creates both challenges and opportunities. Yes, you’ll need to walk outside to reach your car on rainy days, but that same separation means noise from power tools or car maintenance won’t disturb napping children.

Types of detached garages

Detached garages come in various configurations to suit different needs, spaces, and budgets. Here are the most common types:

Single-Car Structures

The most compact option, single-car detached garages, provides just enough room for one vehicle and modest storage. Typically ranging from 12×16 to 16×24 feet, these space-efficient buildings work well on smaller properties or as supplementary storage when you already have parking elsewhere. Despite their smaller footprint, these structures offer surprising versatility—many homeowners transform them into workshops, hobby spaces, or home offices.

Double-Wide Options

When you need room for multiple vehicles or a combination of parking and substantial workspace, double-wide garages—usually spanning 20×20 to 28×40 feet—provide generous interior space that can accommodate two cars side-by-side with room to spare. The expanded dimensions create possibilities for sectioned areas: parking on one side and a workshop on the other.

Carports and Covered Solutions

Carport-style detached structures offer a practical middle ground for those seeking weather protection without full enclosure. These open-sided shelters feature sturdy roofs supported by posts or columns, shielding vehicles from sun, rain, and snow while maintaining easy access and airflow.

Premium Multi-Purpose Buildings

At the high end of the spectrum, multi-purpose detached garages combine vehicle storage with additional living or working spaces. These two-story structures might feature garage bays below with a studio apartment, home office, or recreation room above.

Planning your detached garage

The success of your detached garage project hinges on thorough planning before the first shovel hits the ground. Taking time to consider several key factors will save you headaches and unexpected costs. Here are some important points during your planning phase:

1. Start by diving into your local regulations and permits. Every municipality has specific zoning requirements that dictate everything from how far your garage must sit, from property lines to maximum height restrictions.
2. Contact your local building department and, if applicable, your homeowners association to get a clear picture of what’s permitted. Don’t skip this step—building without proper permits can result in fines or removal orders.
3. Next, scout your property for the ideal location. Consider daily convenience—how will you access the garage in all seasons? Think about the natural flow between your home’s entry points and the garage. Evaluate the terrain; a relatively flat area will minimize site preparation costs. Pay attention to drainage patterns, as water pooling around your garage foundation can cause significant problems over time.
4. Your garage’s positioning should also account for aesthetic harmony with your existing home. Consider sightlines from the street and your main living spaces. Sometimes, the most convenient spot isn’t the most visually appealing, so weigh these factors carefully.
5. Don’t forget practical considerations like utility access. Will you need electricity, water, or heating? Planning these connections in advance is far easier than retrofitting them later. Many homeowners also overlook the importance of adequate lighting inside and outside the structure, especially if you’ll use the space as a workshop.

Trust us when we tell you that thoughtful planning now creates a detached garage that will work well with your property and be a space you’ll enjoy for years to come.

A detached garage in a spot with a view

A House in the Hills offers a unique hillside community of homes with breathtaking views and more than enough space for a detached garage. With large windows, spacious decks, and open-plan living, the A House in the Hills community improves the way you live. Find out more about joining us today.