5 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 1 city in Travis County, Texas.
Verified from official government sources
Unincorporated Travis County has no zoning authority and therefore no ADU restrictions beyond septic/OSSF rules. Austin allows ADUs on most SF lots under HOME Initiative amendments (2023-2024) with reduced lot size, setback, and parking requirements. ADUs up to 1,100 sq ft permitted by right in Austin SF-1/2/3 zones.
Unincorporated Travis County has no shed permit requirement (no zoning authority). Austin requires permits for sheds over 200 sq ft under 2021 IRC R105.2. Sheds under 200 sq ft are permit-exempt but must meet setbacks. HOAs commonly require design review for sheds regardless of size.
Unincorporated Travis County imposes no limits on garage conversions beyond septic capacity. Austin requires permits for conversions to habitable space including electrical, plumbing (if added), egress windows, and insulation meeting IRC 2021. HOME Initiative now counts converted garages toward the 3-unit allowance if they meet ADU standards.
Unincorporated Travis County has no carport regulation. Austin allows carports in rear and side yards with 5-foot setbacks under current HOME-amended SF zoning. Front-yard carports remain restricted in most Austin SF zones to preserve streetscape. HOAs in master-planned communities typically prohibit carports entirely.
Unincorporated Travis County permits tiny homes freely on owned land subject to TCEQ septic rules. Austin treats tiny homes as either ADUs (if on foundation) or RVs (if on wheels, parking restrictions apply). HOME Initiative now permits up to 3 units including tiny home ADUs on SF lots. Tiny-home communities require MUD or full subdivision approval.
1 cities in Travis County have their own accessory structures rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
See every category we cover for Travis County — parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
Travis County Ordinance Hub →