Accessory Structures in Plano, TX (2026)
9 verified accessory structures rules for Plano, Texas, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Plano allows Backyard Cottages (ADUs) from 400 to 1,100 sq ft under its Zoning Ordinance. They must meet architectural compatibility and setback standards, and cannot be sold separately from the main dwelling.
Plano ADU and Backyard Cottage Rules
Some RestrictionsADU Permits
Plano restricts accessory dwelling units in single-family residential districts. Under the Plano Zoning Ordinance, only a 'servant's quarters' or accessory living quarters incidental to the main dwelling is permitted, and it cannot be rented as a separate unit. Detached ADUs as separate rental units require a Specific Use Permit (SUP), reviewed by Planning & Zoning Commission and City Council under Texas Local Government Code Ch. 211 zoning authority.
Plano ADU Permits (Zoning Ordinance + TX Local Govt Code Ch. 211)
Heavy RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Plano charges standard impact and utility fees on new dwelling units under Texas Local Government Code Chapter 395 authority, including water/wastewater impact fees and roadway impact fees in service areas. There is no Texas statewide ADU impact-fee waiver comparable to California Gov. Code §65852.2(f). Costs depend on whether the unit requires a new utility connection.
Plano ADU Impact Fees (Limited; TX Ch. 395 Authority)
Some RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Plano's single-family residential zoning effectively requires owner-occupancy of accessory units 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 second unit, owner-occupancy is typically a condition. Texas has not preempted local owner-occupancy conditions.
Plano ADU Owner-Occupancy (Effectively Required Through Single-Family Zoning)
Heavy RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Plano's single-family zoning prohibits renting an accessory guest house as a separate household. Where an SUP permits a true ADU, long-term (30+ days) rental is allowed if owner-occupancy continues. Short-term rentals (under 30 days) are regulated by Plano's STR ordinance, requiring registration. Texas SB 987 (2023) was vetoed; STR preemption remains unresolved.
Plano ADU Rental Restrictions (SF Zoning + STR Ordinance)
Heavy RestrictionsShed Rules
Detached one-story accessory structures 120 sq ft or smaller do not require a Plano building permit, but must meet zoning setbacks and height limits. Larger sheds require a full permit. No front yard placement.
Plano Shed and Storage Building Rules
Few RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Converting a Plano garage to living space requires a building permit and must preserve required off-street parking. Full IRC compliance for egress, alarms, and electrical is required.
Plano Garage Conversion Permit Rules
Heavy RestrictionsCarport Rules
Carports in Plano require a building permit and must meet setback, height, and architectural compatibility standards. Metal or fabric carports in front yards are generally prohibited. HOAs often ban visible carports.
Plano Carport Rules
Heavy RestrictionsTiny Homes
Plano has no dedicated tiny home ordinance. Site-built tiny houses must meet IRC and zoning minimum dwelling size rules. Tiny homes on wheels are treated as RVs and cannot be used as permanent residences.
Plano Tiny Home Rules
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for Collin County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Plano city rules.
Accessory Structures in Collin County →