Accessory Dwelling Units
Austin, TX · City rule · Reviewed 2026-09-28
Maybe—you may build an accessory dwelling unit only after the property passes zoning, lot, placement, size, and technical-code checks and the project receives a building permit.
Official source: Additional Dwelling UnitsSource checked 2026-09-26
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More about this rule
The rule in plain language
Austin's guide says an accessory dwelling unit may be possible on property zoned SF-1, SF-2, or SF-3 with a lot of at least 5,750 square feet. The unit must also meet property-specific location and size limits, receive a unique address, satisfy fire-separation and other technical-code requirements, and go through the building-permit process.
What to keep in mind
Meeting the zoning and minimum-lot examples is not final project approval. Confirm the property's zoning, overlays, utilities, impervious-cover limits, access, tree constraints, and current technical requirements with the City before relying on a design or beginning work.
Official source
Additional Dwelling Units
City rule: City of Austin · retrieved-2026-09-26 · Source checked 2026-09-26 · Reviewed 2026-09-28
Civic education, not legal advice. Rules can change.
