Garage Sizes & Planning Guide for Minneapolis–St Paul Homeowners
Planning a new detached garage in the Twin Cities? This guide helps Minneapolis–St Paul homeowners compare garage sizes, decide what will fit their vehicles and storage needs, and understand the main factors that affect layout, cost, and build timeline. Western Construction has built thousands of garages across the metro since 1949. Use this guide to plan with confidence.
Have questions about your lot or what size garage makes sense?
Call Western Construction at (952) 920-8888.
Step 1: Decide How You’ll Use Your Garage
Before you pick a size, it helps to be clear about how you really plan to use it. A garage that only stores one compact car is very different from one that needs to fit a full-size truck, store equipment, or include a workbench.
- Daily vehicle parking
- Storage for tools, lawn equipment, bicycles, and seasonal items
- Workbench or hobby space
- Snowblower storage and winter access
- Future needs—larger vehicles, additional storage, EV charging, etc.
Once you understand how you’ll use the space, choosing the right size becomes much easier.
Step 2: Common Minnesota Garage Sizes
1-Car Garages
- 12' × 20' — compact fit
- 14' × 22' — added storage
- 16' × 22' — room for shelving
2-Car Garages (Most Popular)
- 20' × 22' — entry-level size
- 22' × 22' — better fit for today’s vehicles
- 24' × 24' — best balance of space + storage
3-Car Garages
- 30' × 22'
- 32' × 24'
- 36' × 24'
Pro Tip: Most Minneapolis/St Paul homeowners underestimate vehicle door swing and bumper length. Western Construction ensures your garage fits your actual vehicles—not generic dimensions.
Step 3: Understand Your Lot, Setbacks & Zoning Rules
Garage placement isn’t just about where it looks good—it must comply with local zoning, lot coverage, and impervious surface limits.
Key factors:
- Lot width and depth
- Rear-yard and side-yard setbacks
- Impervious surface maximums
- Existing structures (shed, old garage, additions)
- Driveway placement rules
- Alley vs. street access
Western Construction verifies all zoning and setback requirements for every project before drawing your garage plan.
Step 4: Roof Styles, Heights & Storage Options
Your roof style determines attic storage potential, height limits, and how closely the garage matches your home.
Most common options:
- Gable roof — classic look, efficient cost
- Hip roof — stronger in high winds, premium style
- Shed roof — modern, simple, good for tight lots
- Attic/storage trusses — overhead storage without a second story
Height limits vary by city. Minneapolis uses three “tiers,” allowing garages up to 13', 16', or 20' depending on materials and roof pitch. Western Construction ensures your design stays compliant.
Step 5: Driveway Layout & Vehicle Clearance
A well-planned driveway makes daily use easier and helps with winter snow removal. On alley garages, we ensure enough room to turn in and out without clipping fences or dumpsters.
- Door placement improves visibility and access
- Driveway width affects parking comfort
- Snow storage locations must be considered
- Slab slope prevents water from draining into the garage
Step 6: Construction Timeline — What to Expect
Most detached garages follow this general process:
- Zoning verification & planning
- Garage design & quoting
- Permit application & approval
- Demolition of old garage (if needed)
- Concrete slab construction
- Framing, roofing & siding
- Electric wiring (if included)
- Final inspection & completion
Western Construction coordinates every step, including all inspections.
Step 7: Costs & Budget Planning
Garage pricing depends on size, materials, roof style, slab thickness, height tier, electrical options, and site conditions. For the most accurate pricing, Western Construction reviews your lot and designs the garage to fit local zoning and your budget.
See our full pricing guide:
Garage Construction Cost
Related Resources
Ready to start your garage project?
Call Western Construction at (952) 920-8888
Serving Minneapolis–St Paul homeowners since 1949.
