Legal Definitions - accessory building

An accessory building is a separate structure on a property that complements the main building. It is often used for storage or as a workspace. Examples of accessory buildings include garages, sheds, and workshops.

In some criminal statutes, the term "building" may include other structures such as motor vehicles or watercraft. For example, if someone breaks into a car with the intent to steal something, they could be charged with burglary of a building.

The question of whether a structure is considered an accessory building is often disputed in zoning disputes. For instance, if someone wants to build a shed on their property, they may need to prove that it is an accessory building and not a separate dwelling unit.