ADU rules in New Orleans, LA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
New Orleans permits accessory dwelling units, called auxiliary or accessory dwelling units, under the 2015 Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance. ADUs are allowed in most single- and two-family districts subject to size, height, and design standards, and historic district commissions add architectural review.
The 2015 New Orleans Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance (CZO), Article 21, permits accessory dwelling units in most residential zoning districts including HU-RS, HU-RD, HU-RM, HU-MU, S-RS, S-RD, and S-LRS. An ADU may take the form of an interior unit within the principal dwelling, an attached addition, or a detached structure, often a converted garage or carriage house, which is consistent with traditional New Orleans backyard apartments. Detached ADUs are limited in floor area to a percentage of the principal dwelling, generally not exceeding 700 to 1,000 square feet depending on the district, and are restricted in height, typically 20 to 22 feet for single story or up to two stories where compatible with neighborhood context. Owner-occupancy of either the principal dwelling or the ADU is required in many districts to prevent absentee landlording. Short-term rental of ADUs is heavily restricted and generally prohibited unless the owner holds a valid residential STR permit and the property meets owner-occupancy requirements under the citywide STR rules. ADUs in HDLC or Vieux Carre districts must obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness covering massing, materials, fenestration, and visibility from the public right-of-way. Building permits, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical inspections all flow through the Department of Safety and Permits, and base flood elevation requirements apply in mapped FEMA flood zones.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact New Orleans code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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