Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $1,350–$9,000 Includes City LDIRL review ($410) and County building permit fees ($1,350+).
Fee Method Project-based
Apply Online Apply at Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement →

What's Required in Charlotte

  • Maximum size is 1,000 heated square feet and 50% of the primary home floor area
  • Only one ADU allowed per single-family lot
  • Must be a permanent residential structure (no campers or RV conversions)
  • City LDIRL permit must be approved prior to County building permit
  • One off-street parking space is required per ADU unit
  • Must remain under the same ownership as the main home

How to Get a ADU Permit in Charlotte

1

Step 1: Address Request

Establish a new address with Mecklenburg County for the ADU unit.

2

Step 2: City LDIRL

Submit the Land Development permit to the City of Charlotte via Accela.

3

Step 3: County Building Permit

Submit architectural and engineered plans to the County after City approval.

4

Step 4: Fee Payment

Pay the City LDIRL ($410) and County building/trade fees (valuation-based).

5

Step 5: Full Inspections

Schedule foundation, framing, rough-in, and final inspections for CO issuance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, ADUs are allowed on single-family lots but must be approved by both City and County.
Total city and county fees typically start around $1,350 and can exceed $9,000 for large units.
1,000 heated square feet.