ADU rules in Dallas, TX — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Dallas requires an Accessory Dwelling Unit Overlay (ADUO) for ADU construction under Section 51A-4.510. ADUs are not permitted by right in most residential areas. Neighborhoods must apply to create an overlay allowing ADUs.
Section 51A-4.510 of the Dallas Development Code establishes the Accessory Dwelling Unit Overlay. An ADU is defined as a rentable additional dwelling unit, subordinate to the main unit, located on a building site with a single family use. An ADUO may only be placed on an area that allows single family uses and does not expressly prohibit ADUs. The overlay must contain at least 50 single family structures in a compact, contiguous area, or be an original subdivision if it contains fewer than 50 structures. ADUs may not be sold separately from the main building. Off-street parking is not required for an ADU located within 1,200 feet of a DART bus or transit stop. For ADUs over detached garages, the maximum height is governed by the zoning overlay. The neighborhood-driven application process requires community support.
Building an ADU without an approved overlay is a zoning violation. Construction without proper permits results in stop-work orders and fines.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Dallas County.
See how other cities in Dallas County handle adu rules.
See how Dallas's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
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