Accessory Structures in Richardson, TX: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Richardson or are thinking about moving there, accessory structures are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Richardson has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of accessory structures, and some of them might surprise you.

ADU Rules

Richardson zoning has no true accessory dwelling unit category. The only living-quarters accessory building it allows in single-family districts is a 'servants' quarters,' and the zoning definition bars it from ever being rented out or used as a separate dwelling, and strips it of any kitchen or its own utility hookups.

Key details: Only accessory unit allowed: 'Servants' quarters,' domestic help only. Rental ban: Cannot be rented or used as separate dwelling. Kitchen ban: No kitchen or separate utility connections. Masonry rule: 35% masonry if over 150 sq ft (Art. VI §2(b)(2)). Height cap: One story; 12-25 ft depending on size (Art. VI §3(b)).

Converting a servants' quarters or detached garage into a rented apartment, or adding a kitchen or independent utility meter to one, takes the structure outside its permitted accessory use and outside the building standards written for it, exposing the owner to a zoning enforcement action. Under the Code's general penalty, Section 1-8, zoning violations carry a fine of up to $2,000.00 per offense, with each day of a continuing violation, such as an occupied illegal rental unit, treated as a separate offense.

Compared to other cities, Richardson takes a harder line on adu rules. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Shed & Carport Rules

A Richardson tool or storage shed skips a building permit only if the roof area is 40 square feet or less. Anything larger falls under the zoning ordinance's accessory-building limits: one story, a 12 or 25-foot height cap, and a 3-foot side and rear setback.

Key details: Permit-exempt shed size: Roof area 40 sq ft or less. Permit exemption section: IBC § [A] 105.2 as amended. Height, ≤150 sq ft accessory bldg: 12 feet maximum. Height, >150 sq ft accessory bldg: 25 feet maximum. Rear setback (non-alley): 3 feet minimum.

Building a shed over 40 square feet without a permit, or placing any accessory building in violation of the zoning setback or height limits, exposes the owner to a stop-work order and citation enforced by the Building Inspection Department and code enforcement, prosecutable as a Class C misdemeanor with fines assessed per day the violation continues until the structure is permitted, relocated, or removed.

The Bottom Line

Richardson's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Richardson is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Richardson's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.