Accessory Structures in Dallas, TX (2026)
9 verified accessory structures rules for Dallas, Texas, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Dallas requires an Accessory Dwelling Unit Overlay (ADUO) for ADU construction under Section 51A-4.510. ADUs are not permitted by right in most residential areas. Neighborhoods must apply to create an overlay allowing ADUs.
Dallas Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rules
Heavy RestrictionsADU Permits
Dallas only allows accessory dwelling units in limited residential districts (R-7.5, R-10, R-16, RH series) and most ADUs require a Special Use Permit (SUP) or Specific Use Permit under Dallas Development Code § 51A-4.217. Approval requires neighborhood notification, City Plan Commission hearing, and City Council vote. Building permits issue only after the SUP is granted. The process typically takes 6–12 months.
Dallas ADU Permits and Special Permit Process
Heavy RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Dallas charges standard impact and utility fees on ADUs without a state-mandated waiver. The Dallas Water Utilities (DWU) impact fee schedule applies based on meter size, with separate water connections triggering full impact fees. Oncor handles electric service. Roadway impact fees under Dallas City Code Ch. 49A may apply for new dwelling units. Texas has no statewide ADU fee waiver comparable to California's.
Dallas ADU Impact Fees and Utility Charges
Some RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Dallas requires the property owner to occupy either the principal dwelling or the ADU as a permanent residence under Dallas Development Code § 51A-4.217. The owner-occupancy requirement is typically a condition of the Specific Use Permit (SUP) granted for the ADU. A recorded deed restriction is required. Both units cannot be rented to non-owners simultaneously.
Dallas ADU Owner-Occupancy Requirement
Heavy RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Dallas ADUs may be rented long-term (30+ days) provided owner occupancy continues under Dallas Development Code § 51A-4.217. Short-term rentals (under 30 days) are banned in single-family residential districts under the 2023 Dallas STR ordinance (Ordinance 32463, codified in Chapter 42B), which effectively prohibits ADU short-term rental in most of the city. The ordinance survived initial legal challenges in 2024.
Dallas ADU Rental and Short-Term Rental Restrictions
Heavy RestrictionsShed Rules
Dallas generally does not require building permits for detached accessory structures under 200 square feet without utilities. Structures over 200 square feet or with electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems require permits. Maximum height is 15 feet.
Dallas Shed and Accessory Structure Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
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.
Dallas Garage Conversion Rules
Heavy RestrictionsCarport Rules
Detached carports in Dallas are regulated as accessory structures under Development Code Chapter 51A. If located in the rear 30% of the lot, carports can be built up to the side and rear property lines, except a 3-foot setback from alleys is required. The Dallas Building Code requires a one-hour firewall separation unless the structure is set back at least 5 feet from the property line. All-metal carports without combustible materials may be placed closer. A building permit is required.
Dallas Carport Construction Rules
Some RestrictionsTiny Homes
Dallas addresses tiny homes through its Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) overlay under Development Code Sec. 51A-4.510. ADUs in the rear 30% of a lot under 15 feet in height require 3-foot side and rear setbacks. Structures 15 feet or taller must meet base zoning setbacks. Tiny homes on wheels are generally classified as recreational vehicles and subject to parking restrictions under Chapter 28. ADUs must comply with the Dallas Building Code for habitability standards.
Dallas Tiny Home & Small Dwelling Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Dallas County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Dallas city rules.
Accessory Structures in Dallas County →