Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Building a Detached Garage
1. Skipping Permit-Ready Plans
Starting with a sketch or a set of kit instructions may feel easier, but building departments rarely accept them. Most require scaled, permit-ready drawings that show dimensions, elevations, and construction details. Without these, permits can be delayed — or denied outright.
👉 Avoid it: Begin with a complete set of drawings. It keeps your project moving and makes life easier for both your builder and the inspector.
2. Not Checking Local Rules Early
Every jurisdiction has its own requirements: setbacks from property lines, maximum height limits, wall bracing, even driveway placement. If you don’t catch those up front, you may need changes after you’ve already bought plans.
👉 Avoid it: Check your city or county building department’s website for their residential accessory building rules. Most have zoning packets or permit checklists available to download.
3. Underestimating Size
Garages fill up faster than people expect. Trucks and SUVs take up more space than older cars, and once you add bikes, lawn tools, or holiday storage, the “extra room” disappears quickly.
👉 Avoid it: Measure your vehicles and think about storage before choosing dimensions. A few extra feet of depth or width is usually worth it.
4. Overlooking Door and Driveway Layout
A garage door that looks fine on paper can be awkward if the driveway is too short, slopes too steeply, or requires a tight turn. This is one of those details that affects daily use.
👉 Avoid it: Picture how cars will actually pull in and out. Make sure there’s enough flat space in front of the doors to park and turn without hassle.
5. Forgetting About the Future
Many homeowners design for today’s needs only. Later on, they wish they had more storage, a workshop area, or even space upstairs for an office or apartment. Adding that later is far more expensive than planning for it now.
👉 Avoid it: Think about how you’ll use the garage 5–10 years down the road. Even small upgrades like taller walls for loft storage can add long-term value.