Accessory Structures in Waco, TX (2026)
8 verified accessory structures rules for Waco, Texas, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Waco allows accessory dwelling units in certain residential zones subject to zoning requirements. ADUs must meet size limits, setback requirements, and may require conditional use approval.
Waco Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rules
Some RestrictionsADU Permits
Waco regulates accessory dwelling units under the Waco Zoning Ordinance (Code of Ordinances Chapter 28). Detached ADUs (commonly called accessory dwelling units or guest quarters) typically require a Special Use Permit (SUP) or are limited to specific zoning districts under Chapter 28. Building permits issue through the Planning Services Department only after zoning approval. Texas Local Government Code Chapter 211 preserves municipal zoning discretion — no state ADU preemption applies.
Waco ADU Permit Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Waco charges standard water/wastewater impact fees on ADUs requiring new connections under authority of Texas Local Government Code Chapter 395. Building permit fees are based on construction valuation through Planning Services. Texas has no statewide ADU fee waiver. Sharing the principal dwelling's existing water/sewer tap is the most common cost-reduction strategy for Waco property owners.
Waco ADU Impact and Utility Fees
Some RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Waco typically imposes owner-occupancy as a condition of any Special Use Permit granted for accessory dwelling units under Waco Code Chapter 28. The owner must occupy either the principal dwelling or the ADU as a permanent residence, with a recorded deed restriction filed with the McLennan County Clerk. Texas Local Government Code Chapter 211 preserves local zoning authority — no state preemption applies.
Waco ADU Owner-Occupancy Requirement
Heavy RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Waco ADUs may be rented long-term (30+ days) provided owner occupancy continues under the typical SUP condition. Short-term rentals (under 30 days) are regulated under the Waco STR ordinance with registration, hotel occupancy tax collection (Texas Tax Code Chapters 156/351), and zoning-based restrictions. STRs near Magnolia Market, Baylor University, and the Silos see the highest density and the most active enforcement.
Waco ADU Rental and Short-Term Rental Rules
Heavy RestrictionsShed Rules
Waco allows sheds and accessory buildings in residential areas subject to size limits, setback requirements, and height restrictions. Larger structures require building permits.
Waco Shed & Accessory Building Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Waco requires building permits for garage conversions to habitable space. The conversion must meet building codes for living space and maintain required off-street parking.
Waco Garage Conversion Rules
Some RestrictionsCarport Rules
Waco Zoning Code Sec. 28-906 allows carports in side and rear yards no closer than 2 ft to a side or rear lot line, no closer than 5 ft to any principal dwelling on an adjacent lot, and no closer than 10 ft from the rear lot line if accessed from an alley.