Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $1,500–$4,000 Includes plan review (50–65% of base), building permit, and potential parkland dedication fees.
Fee Method Valuation-based
Apply Online Apply at City of Austin Development Services Department →

What's Required in Austin

  • HOME Phase 2 (2024/2026) reduces the minimum lot size to 2,000 square feet for single-family residential lots.
  • ADUs are permitted by-right in all single-family zones (SF-1, SF-2, SF-3) with up to 3 units allowed on many lots.
  • Maximum ADU size is 1,100 square feet or 15% of the total lot area, whichever is less.
  • Detached ADUs require a 4-foot side setback and a 10-foot rear setback from property lines.
  • Each unit requires a unique address or building number obtained via Address Management Services.
  • No additional off-street parking is required for ADUs anywhere in the City of Austin.

How to Get a ADU Permit in Austin

1

Step 1: Zoning Verification

Use the Property Profile tool to verify your lot's zoning (SF-1, SF-2, SF-3) and ADU eligibility.

2

Step 2: Address Request

Submit a request to the Address Management Services to obtain a separate unit address before applying for a permit.

3

Step 3: Professional Plans Submission

Upload IRC-compliant structural, site, and energy plans to the AB+C portal for Residential Plan Review.

4

Step 4: Fee Payment

Pay the plan review fees ($277 minimum for circulation) once intake staff verifies your documentation.

5

Step 5: Full Inspection Sequence

Schedule Foundation, Framing, Rough MEP, and Final inspections to receive a Certificate of Occupancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, under the HOME Initiative, ADUs are allowed citywide with reduced minimum lot sizes as small as 2,000 sq ft.
City fees typically start around $1,500 and can reach $4,000+ including parkland dedication and utility charges.
The maximum size is 1,100 square feet or 15% of your total lot area, whichever is smaller.