Garland, TX Accessory Structures: ADU Owner Occupancy (2026)

Garland's Development Code defines single-family residential districts as permitting one dwelling unit per lot. An accessory guest house, pool house, or servant's quarters may be used by family members, household staff, or short-term guests but cannot operate as a separate independent rental household - that is treated as an unauthorized second dwelling unit and a zoning violation. Where a Specific Use Permit (SUP) is granted to allow a true second unit, the SUP conditions commonly include owner-occupancy of either the principal dwelling or the accessory unit and a recorded deed restriction filed with the Dallas County Clerk binding the property to those conditions. Evidence of owner occupancy includes Texas driver's license, voter registration, and a Texas homestead exemption tied to the property address under Texas Tax Code Sec. 11.13. Texas has not preempted local owner-occupancy conditions; Garland retains full authority under Texas Local Government Code Ch. 211. LLC or trust-owned properties face additional scrutiny - corporate entities cannot personally occupy a property, so SUP conditions typically require the principal member or trustee to reside on-site. If the owner moves out and rents both units, the property faces zoning enforcement and possible SUP revocation through the City Council.