Accessory Structures in Irving, TX (2026)
9 verified accessory structures rules for Irving, Texas, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Irving's UDC permits ADUs in certain residential zones. Texas SB 1412 (2023) expanded ADU rights statewide. Local zoning districts determine where ADUs are allowed.
Irving Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rules
Some RestrictionsADU Permits
Irving regulates accessory dwelling units under the Unified Development Code (UDC), with accessory buildings and structures on residential lots controlled by UDC Section 3.1. Single-family residential districts include R-6, R-7.5, and other R-series classifications with minimum lot sizes corresponding to their numbers. Detached ADUs typically require either rezoning or a Special Exception from the Board of Adjustment, plus a building permit through Development Services.
Irving ADU Permit Process (Unified Development Code)
Heavy RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Irving charges standard building permit, plan review, and trade permit fees on ADUs through Development Services. Water and wastewater impact fees apply under authority of Texas Local Government Code Chapter 395 when a new utility connection is established. Texas has no statewide ADU impact fee waiver. Sharing the principal dwelling's water and sewer tap is the most common cost-reduction strategy.
Irving ADU Impact and Utility Fees
Some RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Irving commonly imposes owner-occupancy as a condition of any Board of Adjustment Special Exception or rezoning granted for an ADU. The owner must occupy either the principal dwelling or the ADU as their permanent residence, typically backed by a recorded affidavit or deed restriction with the Dallas County Clerk (or Tarrant County for west Irving lots). Texas state law has not preempted local owner-occupancy rules.
Irving ADU Owner-Occupancy Conditions
Heavy RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Irving ADUs may be rented long-term (30+ days) provided owner occupancy continues under the Special Exception condition. Short-term rentals under 30 days fall under Texas Tax Code Chapter 156 hotel occupancy tax (6% state) and Irving's local hotel occupancy tax under Tex. Tax Code Chapter 351 (commonly 7%). Irving regulates STR use through the UDC; STR operation in single-family districts can be challenged.
Irving ADU Rental and Short-Term Rental Rules
Heavy RestrictionsShed Rules
Irving limits detached accessory buildings to 10% of lot area or 2,500 sq ft max on lots under 1/2 acre. No size limit on lots 1/2 acre or larger. Building permits required.
Irving Shed & Accessory Building Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Garage conversions in Irving require a building alterations permit. Converted spaces must meet building code for habitable rooms. Parking requirements for the lot must still be satisfied.
Irving Garage Conversion Rules
Some RestrictionsCarport Rules
Irving carports are limited to 400 sq ft, max 10-foot height, and can only shelter up to 2 vehicles. Lots over 1/2 acre may have two carports. No storage allowed in carports.
Irving Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsTiny Homes
Tiny homes in Irving must comply with the IRC and UDC for the applicable zoning district. Minimum dwelling size, setback, and utility connection requirements apply. Tiny homes on wheels treated as RVs.
Irving Tiny Home Regulations
Some RestrictionsLooking for Dallas County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Irving city rules.
Accessory Structures in Dallas County →