Dallas, TX Accessory Structures: ADU Rental Restrictions (2026)

Long-term rental (30 days or more) of an ADU is permitted in Dallas as long as the property owner continues to occupy either the principal dwelling or the ADU as required by Dallas Development Code § 51A-4.217 and the recorded deed restriction. Short-term rentals (under 30 days) face severe restrictions following the City Council's June 2023 adoption of Ordinance 32463, codified as Dallas City Code Chapter 42B. The ordinance prohibits short-term rentals in all single-family residential zoning districts (R-7.5, R-10, R-16, MF-1, MF-2 etc.) where most ADUs are located, effectively banning Airbnb-style ADU rentals across most of Dallas. STRs are permitted only in mixed-use, commercial, and certain multi-family districts with a registered STR certificate ($1,000 annual fee). The Texas Court of Appeals upheld portions of the ban in 2024 against state preemption challenges; further litigation is ongoing. ADUs that received SUPs before June 2023 may have grandfather rights under specific terms. Property owners should verify their zoning district through the Sustainable Development GIS portal before listing on Airbnb/VRBO. The city actively monitors short-term rental platforms and issues citations.