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

Plano's Zoning Ordinance restricts the use of accessory structures in single-family districts (SF-6 through SF-A) — they cannot operate as separate rental households. Where a Specific Use Permit (SUP) has been granted to authorize a second dwelling unit, long-term rental (30 days or more) is permitted as long as the property owner continues to occupy either the principal dwelling or the accessory unit, consistent with the SUP conditions. Short-term rentals (under 30 days) are regulated by Plano's STR ordinance, which requires hosts to register, designate a 24-hour local contact, collect and remit Hotel Occupancy Tax (state 6% + Plano 7% local HOT), and comply with parking, occupancy, and noise standards. The Texas Legislature in 2023 considered SB 987 to broadly preempt local STR regulation; Governor Abbott vetoed it. The Texas Supreme Court's 2018 Tarr v. Timberwood Park decision held that STRs are 'residential' in most deed restrictions, but Texas courts continue to permit municipal regulation of STRs as a zoning matter — the state's preemption framework on STRs remains unresolved. Texas has no statewide rent control authority and explicitly preempts local rent control under Texas Local Government Code §214.902, so Plano cannot adopt rent stabilization. The Texas Property Code Ch. 92 governs landlord-tenant relationships.