Garage conversion rules in Dallas, TX — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Converting a garage to living space in Dallas requires building permits and must maintain required off-street parking. ADU conversions of detached garages require an approved Accessory Dwelling Unit Overlay under Section 51A-4.510.
Garage conversions in Dallas require building permits from the Building Inspection Division. The conversion must comply with the International Residential Code as adopted by Dallas, including requirements for egress, ventilation, insulation, and electrical. If the garage provides required off-street parking under Section 51A-4.301, alternative parking must be provided before conversion. Converting a detached garage into a separate dwelling unit (ADU) requires an approved ADUO under Section 51A-4.510. Interior conversions to a habitable room (home office, bedroom) within an attached garage are permitted with proper permits but must not eliminate required parking. Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits may be needed depending on the scope of work.
Converting without permits is a code violation. Loss of required parking without alternatives may result in zoning violations. Stop-work orders and fines may apply.
Dallas, TX
Dallas has no city ordinance regulating residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or religious displays on private property. Property maintenance rules under Dal...
Dallas, TX
Dallas has no city ordinance specifically regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Inflatables are permitted on private property subject to right-...
Dallas, TX
Dallas has no city ordinance specifying installation dates, removal deadlines, or brightness limits for residential holiday light displays. Amplified outdoor...
Dallas, TX
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Dallas require multiple permits through the Department of Sustainable Development and Construction: a building permit for the st...
Dallas, TX
Dallas has no city ordinance specifically regulating residential backyard smokers, pellet grills, or wood-fired ovens. Operation is governed by general nuisa...
Dallas, TX
Dallas adopts the 2021 International Fire Code under Dallas City Code Ch. 16 (Fire Prevention). IFC § 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and LP-gas...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Dallas County.
See how other cities in Dallas County handle garage conversions.
See how Dallas's garage conversions rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.