ADU Permits: Dallas vs Irving
How do adu permits rules compare between Dallas, TX and Irving, TX?
Dallas and Irving have similar restriction levels.
Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Dallas only allows accessory dwelling units in limited residential districts (R-7.5, R-10, R-16, RH series) and most ADUs require a Special Use Permit (SUP) or Specific Use Permit under Dallas Development Code § 51A-4.217. Approval requires neighborhood notification, City Plan Commission hearing, and City Council vote. Building permits issue only after the SUP is granted. The process typically takes 6–12 months.
View full Dallas rules →Irving, TX
Dallas County
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.
View full Irving rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Irving |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Dallas Dev Code § 51A-4.217 | - |
| Review Type | Specific Use Permit (discretionary) | - |
| Allowed Districts | R-7.5, R-10, R-16, RH series | - |
| Timeline | 6–12 months SUP + permit | - |
| Detached Max | 600 sq ft | - |
| Governing Code | - | Irving UDC (Land Development Code) |
| Accessory Section | - | UDC Section 3.1 |
| Single-Family Minimums | - | R-6 (6,000 sf), R-7.5 (7,500 sf) |
| Process | - | Rezoning or BOA Special Exception |
| Adopted Building Code | - | 2021 IRC, 2020 NEC (ORD-2023-10699) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dallas FAQ
How do I get an ADU permit in Dallas?
Most Dallas ADUs require a Specific Use Permit (SUP) under Dallas Development Code § 51A-4.217. File an SUP application with Sustainable Development and Construction, attend City Plan Commission and City Council hearings, then apply for the building permit. Total time 6–12 months.
Why is Dallas so much stricter on ADUs than California cities?
Texas has not enacted state preemption of local ADU rules like California's Gov. Code § 65852.2. Dallas retains discretionary control through the SUP process, requiring public hearings and Council approval rather than ministerial over-the-counter review.
Irving FAQ
How do I get an ADU permit in Irving?
Confirm the lot's zoning district under UDC Chapter 2, then check UDC Section 3.1 for accessory structure rules. R-6 and R-7.5 single-family districts do not permit ADUs by right — you'll need rezoning or a Board of Adjustment Special Exception. Once zoning is approved, apply for a building permit through Irving Development Services.
Does Irving allow ADUs by right?
Not in the typical R-6 and R-7.5 single-family districts. UDC Section 3.1 generally limits detached accessory buildings to those without second kitchens. ADUs with kitchens usually require rezoning to a district that permits two-family use or a Special Exception from the Board of Adjustment.
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