Memphis, TN Accessory Structures: ADU Permits (2026)

The Memphis and Shelby County Unified Development Code (UDC), Chapter 4 (Residential Districts), permits ADUs (called 'accessory dwelling units') as a permitted accessory use in most R districts subject to Section 4.6 standards. Eligible districts include R-6, R-8, R-10, R-15, R-20, and the various RU mixed-residential districts. The ADU must be on a lot containing a principal dwelling, the lot must meet the underlying district's minimum size (typically 6,000 to 20,000 sq ft depending on district), ADU floor area is capped at 800 sq ft or 30% of the principal dwelling whichever is less, and maximum height is 16 feet or the height of the principal structure, whichever is less. Setbacks match accessory structure standards (typically 5 feet from side and rear property lines). One additional off-street parking space is required. Applications go through the Memphis Division of Planning and Development for zoning sign-off, then the Office of Construction Code Enforcement for building permits (with separate plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and gas permits). Tennessee has no statewide ADU mandate comparable to California's Gov. Code 65852.2 or Oregon HB 2001, so Memphis-Shelby retains full local discretion. Properties in historic overlay districts (Cooper-Young, Central Gardens, Victorian Village) require Memphis Landmarks Commission review. Typical permit timeline is 6 to 10 weeks.