ADU rules in Davidson County, TN — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
DADUs are permitted by right in most Davidson County residential areas within the Urban Services District under BL2025-1007. The alley requirement was removed, size limits raised to 700–850 sq ft, and the process streamlined.
BL2025-1007 (effective late 2025) allows DADUs by right in most residential zones within the Urban Services District (USD) of Davidson County. The alley access barrier has been eliminated. Maximum size: 700 sq ft standard; 850 sq ft on lots over 10,000 sq ft. DADU must be subordinate in size, height (eave height cannot exceed primary structure), and mass to the primary home. Setbacks: 5-foot side and rear; 10-foot separation from primary dwelling. Only one DADU per parcel. Contractor (not self-permit) must pull the permit. DADUs may not be used as short-term rentals. Historic overlay properties require MHZC approval and a recorded covenant; rental for income is prohibited in historic overlays.
Unpermitted DADU: stop-work order. STR use of DADU violates Zoning Code and §6.28.030.
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See how Davidson County's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
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