Louisiana Statewide Rule
Louisiana State Construction Code Governs ADUs
Key Facts
- Building code
- LSUCC mandatory
- Statute
- La. R.S. 40:1730.28
- Zoning control
- Stays local
- Flood elevation
- Required in SFHA
Summary
Louisiana mandates that all accessory dwelling units comply with the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code, preempting local building standards while leaving zoning approvals to parishes and municipalities.
§3733. Mandatory adoption of certain nationally recognized codes and standards as 26 the State Uniform Construction Code; adoption by reference 27 A. The commission shall evaluate, adopt, and amend only the latest editions 28 of all of the following as the Uniform Construction Code: 29 (1) International Building Code (IBC), not including Chapter 1-Scope and 30 Administration, and Chapter 27-Electrical. The applicable standards referenced in Page 16 of 47 CODING: Words in struck through type are deletions from existing law; words underscored are additions. HB NO. 1186 ENROLLED 1 that code are included for the regulation of construction within this state. The 2 appendices of that code may be adopted as needed, but the specific appendix or 3 appendices shall be referenced by name or letter designation at the time of adoption. 4 (2) International Existing Building Code (IEBC), not including Chapter 1- 5 Scope and Administration. The applicable standards referenced in that code are 6 included for the regulation of construction within this state.
Full Breakdown
La. R.S. 40:1730.28 requires every parish and municipality to enforce the LSUCC, which incorporates the International Residential Code for one- and two-family dwellings. ADUs, whether attached or detached, must meet IRC requirements for egress, fire separation, energy conservation, and elevation in flood zones under La. R.S. 38:84 and FEMA-mapped areas. The statute prohibits local amendments that lower these construction standards. Zoning, density, owner-occupancy, and short-term rental conditions remain entirely within local authority, so cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge may still restrict where ADUs are permitted by use district.
Violations & Penalties
Constructing an ADU without LSUCC-compliant permits exposes owners to stop-work orders, civil penalties under local enforcement, and inability to obtain a certificate of occupancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Louisiana force every parish to allow ADUs?
Must an ADU be elevated above flood level in Louisiana?
Sources
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