Accessory Structures in Houston, TX (2026)
2 verified accessory structures rules for Houston, Texas, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Houston has no zoning, so it does not regulate accessory dwelling units citywide by right, setback, or unit cap; a garage apartment outside a historic district needs only a building permit under Chapter 10 and the building lines Chapter 42 sets in platting. Inside one of the city's protected historic districts, § 33-241.1(c)(5)a lets planning staff approve a freestanding garage apartment of 600 square feet or less at the rear of the lot without a full historic commission hearing.
Houston Garage Apartment Rules in Historic Districts
Some RestrictionsHouston Code of Ordinances § 33-241.1(c)(5)a
(c) The director is authorized to issue a certificate of appropriateness for the following activities if the director finds that the proposed activity will be performed in a manner that satisfies the criteria for alterations, additions, or new construction in this article... (5) Construction of: a. Freestanding garages, including garage apartments, freestanding carports, and other secondary str...
Shed & Carport Rules
Houston has no zoning code, so there is no shed size cap or district setback. Chapter 42's building-line rule instead bars any structure needing a building permit from sitting inside the platted line, and Chapter 10 requires sheds and garages be kept structurally sound.
Houston Shed Rules: Building Lines, Not Zoning
Some RestrictionsHouston Code of Ordinances § 42-150(a)-(b)
An improvement that requires a building permit shall not be constructed within the building line requirement established by this chapter. ... The building line requirements established by this chapter are minimum standards. Where deed restrictions provide for a greater building line or setback, the deed restrictions shall control over the provisions of this chapter.
Looking for Harris County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Houston city rules.
Accessory Structures in Harris County →