Fort Worth, TX Accessory Structures: ADU Permits (2026)

The Fort Worth Zoning Ordinance Section 5.300 (Accessory Uses and Structures) permits ADUs (called 'accessory dwellings' or 'garage apartments') in the A-5, A-7.5, A-10, A-21, AR, B, C, D, ER, and CR residential districts, subject to specific standards. The ADU must be on a lot of at least 5,000 sq ft (varies by district), the lot must contain a primary dwelling, and the ADU cannot exceed 25% of the primary dwelling's floor area or 800 sq ft, whichever is less. Maximum height is 1.5 stories or the underlying district's height limit, whichever is lower. The ADU permit application goes through the Accela Citizen Access portal (apps.fortworthtexas.gov/Accela). A building permit is always required; some districts (notably A-10 and A-21) treat ADUs as 'permitted by right' while others require a Special Exception from the Board of Adjustment under Zoning Ord. Section 3.804. Texas does not have a state ADU-streamlining law equivalent to California's Gov. Code 65852.2, so Fort Worth retains broad discretion. Typical permit timeline is 4-8 weeks for a clear application; plan review fees run roughly $500-$1,500 plus impact fees. The ADU shares the primary water/sewer connection unless a separate meter is installed.