What's Required in Fort Worth
- Residential New Construction fee of $0.40 per sq. ft. applies.
- Mandatory building plan review fee of $75.
- Certificate of Occupancy fee of $150 required.
- Must include full kitchen and bathroom facilities.
- Separate or combined electrical/plumbing permits mandatory.
- Zoning district must allow for accessory dwellings.
How Much Does an ADU Permit Cost in Fort Worth?
Budget $1,000–$3,000 for the Fort Worth permit itself (size-based), issued by the Development Services Department — 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: new construction is $0.40 per sq. ft. plus major trade 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 Fort Worth
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: certificate of Occupancy fee of $150 required. Setbacks, height limits, and utility connections layer on top of those rules. The Development Services Department 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 Fort Worth
Step 1: Zoning Audit
Use Permit Assist to verify if an ADU is allowed on your lot.
Step 2: Submit Plans
Provide architectural sets for the $75 plan review.
Step 3: Online Filing
Apply for 'Residential Building - New' in the Accela portal.
Step 4: Pay Impact Fees
Pay based on square footage and applicable trade tiers.
Step 5: Occupancy Permit
Final $150 fee for the Certificate of Occupancy upon completion.