What's Required in New Orleans
- Building permit required for all secondary dwelling units.
- Must contain independent cooking, sleeping, and sanitation facilities.
- Requires professional architectural plans including foundation.
- Must meet lot coverage and setback rules for the zoning district.
- Owner-occupancy of the property is a mandatory requirement.
- Must follow all flood elevation requirements for the specific lot.
How Much Does an ADU Permit Cost in New Orleans?
Budget $1,000–$4,000 for the New Orleans permit itself (valuation-based), issued by the Department of Safety and Permits — but treat that as the entry fee, not the total. ADUs are full dwelling units, so the permit stack usually includes building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical trade permits, plus plan review. One local note: includes building, zoning, and utility capacity fees. Get an itemized fee estimate from the department before finalizing your budget; the spread between a simple conversion and a new detached build is wide.
ADU Size Limits and Zoning Rules in New Orleans
Before drawing plans, check the two gates that sink most ADU projects: size and zoning. Size ceilings vary by lot and ADU type (attached, detached, or conversion), so confirm your specific configuration. Other recorded conditions: owner-occupancy of the property is a mandatory requirement. Setbacks, height limits, and utility connections layer on top of those rules. The Department of Safety and Permits can confirm what your specific lot allows — worth doing before you pay for architectural drawings rather than after.
How to Get a ADU Permit in New Orleans
Step 1: Zoning Verification
Confirm an ADU is allowed on your lot via DSP Planning.
Step 2: Design Documents
Prepare detailed site plans and architectural drawings.
Step 3: Submit Portal
Apply for a New Accessory Structure permit online.
Step 4: Multi-Agency Review
Checked by Building, Zoning, and Fire departments.
Step 5: Inspections
Full series from footings to final occupancy sign-off.