Accessory Structures in Memphis, TN (2026)
2 verified accessory structures rules for Memphis, Tennessee, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Memphis and Shelby County zoning allows one accessory dwelling unit per single-family lot, but a lot under 7,000 square feet cannot have one at all. On a lot between 7,000 square feet and 1.5 acres, the ADU's living area is capped at 700 square feet or a third of the main house's floor area, whichever is smaller.
Memphis Accessory Dwelling Unit Rules
Some RestrictionsMemphis and Shelby County Unified Development Code § 2.7.2.D
Accessory dwelling units shall only be permitted as accessory to single-family detached uses. No more than one accessory dwelling unit shall be permitted per lot. ... 1. The living area of the accessory dwelling unit may not exceed the living area of the principal structure. a. On residential lots of less than 7,000 square feet, no accessory dwelling units may be constructed. b. On residential ...
Shed & Carport Rules
Memphis and Shelby County zoning keeps sheds and other accessory structures at least 5 feet from side and rear property lines, bars them from the front yard in single-family and residential districts, and caps their combined footprint at 75% of the principal structure's floor area. Taller structures over 20 feet need a deeper 20-foot side and rear setback.
Memphis Accessory Shed Setback Rules
Some RestrictionsMemphis and Shelby County Unified Development Code § 2.7.2
1. No accessory structure shall be located closer than five feet to any side or rear property lines. ... 4. In single-family, open and residential zoning districts, no accessory structure shall be located within the front yard. Flagpoles, bird baths, statues and similar ornamental features are exempt. ... Barns and other related accessory structures may be located in front of the primary reside...
Looking for Shelby County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Memphis city rules.
Accessory Structures in Shelby County →