ADU Rules: Alpharetta vs Atlanta
How do adu rules rules compare between Alpharetta, GA and Atlanta, GA?
Atlanta has fewer restrictions than Alpharetta.
Alpharetta, GA
Fulton County
Accessory Dwelling Units in unincorporated Fulton County are permitted in residential zones with a maximum of 750 sq ft under Zoning Article 4. Atlanta amended its ADU rules in 2018 to allow ADUs in most R-zones.
View full Alpharetta rules →Atlanta, GA
Fulton County
Atlanta expanded its ADU rules in 2021 to allow ADUs on most single-family lots. Detached ADUs are capped at 750 sq ft or 50% of the main dwelling's heated area and must share utilities.
View full Atlanta rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Alpharetta | Atlanta |
|---|---|---|
| County size cap | 750 sq ft | - |
| Owner occupancy | Required | - |
| Atlanta zones | R-5, R-4A, R-4B, PD-H | - |
| Max Size (Detached) | - | 750 sq ft or 50% of main |
| Height | - | ~20 ft / 1.5 stories |
| Side/Rear Setback | - | ~7 ft |
| Utilities | - | Shared with main home |
| STR Use | - | Requires STR license |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Alpharetta FAQ
Can I rent my ADU on Airbnb?
Only with STR license (Atlanta) — owner-occupancy still required.
Does an ADU need its own address?
Yes for utility/911 purposes; treated as a separate dwelling.
Atlanta FAQ
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