A 4-car garage typically needs to be at least 800 to 1,200 square feet. The exact size depends heavily on the dimensions of the vehicles and the desired amount of extra space for storage or a workbench. A standard two-car garage is often around 20x20 feet (400 sq ft), so a common starting point for a 4-car garage is a 40x20 foot layout (800 sq ft). However, this provides a tight fit for modern full-size trucks and SUVs.
For more comfortable use, a larger footprint is recommended. The table below outlines common dimensions and their resulting square footage, along with the practicality of each for different vehicle types.
| Garage Dimensions (Feet) | Total Square Footage | Ideal For / Notes |
|---|
| 36 x 24 | 864 sq ft | Compact cars; very tight for trucks/SUVs. |
| 40 x 20 | 800 sq ft | Basic minimum for four average sedans. |
| 40 x 24 | 960 sq ft | Good for a mix of sedans and mid-size SUVs. |
| 44 x 24 | 1,056 sq ft | Comfortable fit for larger vehicles. |
| 40 x 30 | 1,200 sq ft | Excellent space, allowing for extra walk-around and storage area. |
| 48 x 30 | 1,440 sq ft | Ample space for large trucks, plus a significant workshop zone. |
Beyond the raw square footage, consider the layout. A single, wide rectangle (e.g., 40x20) is cost-effective to build. A side-by-side double two-car garage (e.g., two 20x20 spaces with a wall in between) is another option. For the ultimate in functionality, a 30x30 or 30x40 square layout creates a true "shop" environment, perfect for hobbyists or those with oversized vehicles. Always check local building codes, as they may have minimum size requirements or setback rules that affect your final dimensions.
