ADU rules in Austin, TX — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Austin's HOME Initiative (Ord. 20231207-001, effective Feb 5, 2024) allows up to 3 housing units, including ADUs and tiny homes, on lots zoned SF-1, SF-2, and SF-3.
Ordinance 20231207-001 (HOME Phase 1) created a new Three-Unit Residential Use and amended occupancy and dwelling unit rules in SF-1, SF-2, SF-3. HOME Phase 2 reduced minimum lot size to 1,800 sq ft for small-lot single-family use (down from 5,750 sq ft standard). Restrictions on the number of unrelated adults per unit were removed. Each dwelling in two- and three-unit uses needs a unique address. Tiny homes are defined as dwelling units of 400 sq ft or less. Subchapter F compatibility requirements are waived for sites using the Two-Unit or Three-Unit Residential Uses, with no extra documentation review.
Building without permits triggers stop-work orders and Land Development Code enforcement. Deed restrictions or HOA covenants may impose stricter limits than the city code.
Austin, TX
Austin City Code Chapter 9-2 establishes citywide quiet hours from 10:30 PM to 7:00 AM, during which sound plainly audible across a property line in resident...
Austin, TX
Austin enforces Texas Transportation Code Chapter 683 and Austin City Code Chapter 12-5: a vehicle on public right-of-way is abandoned if inoperable for more...
Austin, TX
Austin Land Development Code Chapter 25-2 Subchapter F caps residential fences at 6 feet in side and rear yards and 4 feet in front yards without a permit. C...
Austin, TX
Austin City Code Chapter 3-4 requires dogs in public to be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet, with limited exceptions for designated off-leash area...
Austin, TX
Consumer fireworks are illegal to possess, use, or sell within Austin city limits. Violations can carry fines up to $2,000. Permits are issued only for profe...
Austin, TX
Austin imposes no general restriction on year-round lawn ornaments, statuary, or religious displays on private residential property. The sign code (LDC 25-10...
See how Austin's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
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