Knoxville, TN Accessory Structures: ADU Owner Occupancy (2026)

An ADU may be located only on a lot with one single-family dwelling. However, in EN districts, ADUs shall be permitted unless the neighborhood prohibits them in a new approved EN application. One of the dwelling units must be occupied by the owner of the property.3.A lot must have a minimum area of 5,000 square feet to qualify for an ADU.4.Only one ADU is permitted per lot.5.The ADU may be within, attached to, or detached from the primary dwelling structure and may be a part of a detached accessory structure. An ADU may be developed within an existing structure or as new development.6.A detached ADU is not permitted in a front yard or corner side yard. See Article 10.3.A.3.d for ADU requirements in through lot rear.7.In no case may an ADU exceed 40% of the primary dwelling floor area nor more than 2 bedrooms.8.The ADU must be designed so that the appearance of the primary structure remains that of a house. The entrance to the ADU must be located in such a manner as to be unobtrusive from the same view of the structure that encompasses the entrance to the principal dwelling.9.One off-street parking space is required for the ADU.C.Amateur (Ham) Radio Equipment This Section adopts the federal definitions codified at 47 U.S.C. § 97.3.