Accessory Structures in Garland, TX (2026)
9 verified accessory structures rules for Garland, Texas, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Garland allows accessory dwellings under GDC Section 2.51 in residential zones. Must have main building on lot. Minimum 3-foot side/rear setbacks. Front yard must match main building setback. No accessory building used as dwelling except per §2.51.
Garland ADU & Accessory Dwelling Rules
Some RestrictionsADU Permits
Garland restricts accessory dwelling units in single-family residential districts. Under the Garland Code of Ordinances Chapter 6 (Comprehensive Zoning) and the Garland Development Code, single-family districts (SF-7, SF-10, etc.) permit one dwelling unit per lot. An accessory 'servant's quarters' or guest house is permitted as an incidental use but cannot be rented as a separate household. A true detached rental ADU typically requires a Specific Use Permit (SUP) under Texas Local Government Code Ch. 211 zoning authority.
Garland ADU Permits (Zoning Code + TX Local Govt Code Ch. 211)
Heavy RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Garland charges standard development and utility fees on new dwelling units under Texas Local Government Code Chapter 395 authority. There is no Texas statewide ADU impact-fee waiver. Sharing the principal dwelling's existing water and sewer service typically avoids most impact fees; standalone connections trigger Chapter 395 water/wastewater and roadway impact fees in adopted service areas.
Garland ADU Impact Fees (TX Ch. 395 Standard Fees)
Some RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Garland's single-family residential zoning effectively requires owner-occupancy of accessory living quarters by limiting each lot to one dwelling unit. The accessory guest house or servant's quarters cannot be rented as a separate household. Where a Specific Use Permit allows a true ADU, owner-occupancy is typically imposed as an SUP condition with a recorded deed restriction. Texas has not preempted local owner-occupancy rules.
Garland ADU Owner-Occupancy (Effectively Required Through SF Zoning)
Heavy RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Garland's single-family zoning prohibits renting an accessory guest house as a separate household. Where an SUP authorizes a true ADU, long-term (30+ days) rental is allowed if owner-occupancy continues per SUP conditions. Short-term rentals (under 30 days) are regulated under the Garland Code of Ordinances with registration and Hotel Occupancy Tax obligations. Texas LGC Sec. 214.902 preempts rent control citywide.
Garland ADU Rental Restrictions (SF Zoning + STR Ordinance)
Heavy RestrictionsShed Rules
Garland regulates accessory structures under GDC Chapter 2. Rear yard setbacks of 3 feet minimum for side and rear. Must have main building on lot. Building permits may be required by size.
Garland Shed & Accessory Structure Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Garland allows garage conversions to living space with permits but requires replacement covered parking and full compliance with residential building, energy, and egress codes.
Garland Garage Conversion Rules
Heavy RestrictionsCarport Rules
Garland allows attached and detached carports with a building permit, requiring specific setbacks, materials, and limits on front-yard placement to maintain residential appearance.
Garland Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsTiny Homes
Garland regulates tiny homes by foundation type and size, allowing site-built tiny homes on permanent foundations in residential zones but restricting tiny homes on wheels.
Garland Tiny Home Rules
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for Dallas County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Garland city rules.
Accessory Structures in Dallas County →