Garage conversion rules in Memphis, TN — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Garage conversions in Memphis to living space or ADUs require building permits from OCCE and must comply with UDC Chapter 2.7 ADU provisions. Tennessee has no statewide ADU mandate; local UDC governs. ADU size limits apply.
Memphis permits garage-to-living-space conversions with a building permit from the Memphis and Shelby County Office of Construction Code Enforcement. The conversion must meet residential building code for egress windows, ventilation, insulation, and electrical. The property must maintain minimum required off-street parking spaces per the zoning code. Conversions near downtown Memphis and in Midtown are popular for creating studio apartments or accessory dwelling spaces. Tennessee has no statewide ADU mandate, so Memphis zoning governs use restrictions. Converting a garage to an independent rental unit may require a conditional use permit depending on the zoning district.
Unpermitted conversion: stop-work and $250 fine. Occupancy without final inspection: $100 per day. Rental without proper zoning approval: cease-and-desist.
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See how Memphis's garage conversions rules stack up against other locations.
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