State building regulations: What you must consider when building a garage

If you want to build a garage, you will quickly realize that there are many regulations to consider. These are often more than you might think.
Particularly important are the garage construction regulations set out in the state building code of the respective federal state. This determines whether you need a building permit for the garage. It also specifies the applicable dimensions. In addition, it states whether your garage may be built directly on the property line.
Many builders naturally ask themselves at the outset: Which state building code applies to garages? The answer is clear – always that of the state in which your property is located. Since the rules vary greatly, it is important to take a close look before finalizing your garage plans.
Garages from ZAPF have one major advantage: they are manufactured so precisely that they fit almost without any adjustments. This makes your planning much easier and gives you a feeling of security.

When is a building permit required?

The question “Do you need a building permit for a prefabricated garage?” comes up regularly – and quite rightly so. The answer depends on many factors, including:

• the permissible gross floor area,
• the average wall height,
• the distance to a public traffic area,
• the use, such as parking motor vehicles,
• and, of course, the regulations of the respective state.

In many regions, it is actually possible to build a garage without a permit. However, this only applies to certain types and sizes of garages. If you are planning large construction projects, you will need a permit. This also applies if you do not want to build the garage on a permitted boundary.

To help you avoid accidentally breaking any rules, ZAPF will assist you with all coordination with the building authority. This is a major advantage. Documentation is often a major challenge for many builders.

Building regulations for garages: dimensions, heights, and usage requirements

The building regulations for garages specify in detail the requirements for the dimensions and heights of garages. These include, among other things:

• maximum length and height,
• ventilation requirements,
• special requirements for closed garages,
• minimum distances for safety and fire protection.

Every building code also specifies exactly how a garage may be used. There are usage regulations that clearly stipulate that garages are primarily intended for parking motor vehicles. These rules are designed to ensure safety and orderly coexistence.

Because ZAPF garages are manufactured with precision, these requirements can be easily met. This is a major advantage that will save you time and hassle later on.

Clearances and boundary construction explained simply

Garage clearances and garage boundary construction are among the most discussed topics in garage construction. Many owners naturally want to position their garage in the most space-saving way possible – preferably directly on the boundary. In numerous state building regulations – for example, in Baden-Württemberg and Rhineland-Palatinate – this is actually permitted.

However, certain conditions must be met, including:

• a limited average wall height,
• a maximum length along the boundary,
• no windows or openings facing the neighbor’s property,
• and compliance with basic fire safety requirements.

Because these rules often seem complex, it is particularly worthwhile to consult with experts at an early stage. With ZAPF, you can be sure that your garage will be planned exactly as permitted by the regulations.

Fire protection for prefabricated garages: safety that counts

Fire protection for prefabricated garages is a crucial component of every state building code. Since garages are primarily used for parking vehicles, they must meet special safety requirements. These include:

• fire resistance class,
• minimum distances from houses,
• ventilation concepts,
• and the design of gates and doors.

Precast concrete garages from ZAPF have many good properties. Concrete is non-combustible and very stable. This not only ensures safety, but also makes it easier to obtain approval.

Garages and parking spaces: What you should know

State building regulations often treat garages and parking spaces together. This results in additional parking space regulations, which are interpreted differently depending on the state. These requirements include:

• the number of mandatory parking spaces,
• the width and layout of the driveway,
• requirements for drainage areas,
• and the design of the surrounding area – especially in residential areas.

With a garage from ZAPF, you can easily meet these requirements. It can be flexibly adapted to your property and the building regulations.

Differences in state building regulations for garage construction

One of the reasons why many builders are uncertain is the sometimes considerable differences in state building regulations for garage construction. While certain dimensions apply in Baden-Württemberg, completely different requirements may be decisive in Rhineland-Palatinate. The question of whether a garage may be built directly on the boundary is also often answered differently.

ZAPF helps you to understand the requirements correctly. We accompany you step by step, from the initial planning to the final approval.

Frequently asked questions about garage construction

Which state building code applies to garages?

The state building code of the federal state in which your property is located is always decisive. As the regulations vary from state to state, it is worth taking a close look at the applicable regulations.

Do you need a building permit for a prefabricated garage?

That depends on the dimensions of the garage. If it exceeds certain dimensions, heights, or prescribed clearance areas, a building permit is usually required. Smaller garages may be exempt from approval in some circumstances.

Can I build my garage directly on the property line?

In many cases, building on the property line is possible. However, this is subject to the garage complying exactly with building regulations – particularly with regard to length, height, and wall area along the property line.

What does the average wall height mean?

The average wall height is an important calculation value in building law. It is used to assess whether a garage can be built without a permit or not.

Are garages legally considered parking spaces?

Yes. Garages are classified as parking spaces under building law. This means that additional requirements apply to them, for example with regard to size, access roads, or counting toward parking space requirements.