Can I Build ADU in Fort Worth, TX? (2026)
Find out if you can build a adu in Fort Worth, TX. Rules, permit requirements, costs, and next steps.
Yes, ADUs are allowed in Fort Worth, TX. California state law ensures by-right approval.
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary housing unit on a residential lot — also called a granny flat, in-law suite, or backyard cottage. In Fort Worth, TX, ADUs are permitted by right under state law, making them one of the most accessible ways to add housing on your property. ADUs can be detached, attached to the main home, or created by converting an existing garage or accessory structure.
ADU Rules in Fort Worth
ADU Rules in Fort Worth: Detached ADU max size: No explicit sqft cap in §5.301; accessory structures shall not exceed the square footage of the primary structure (§5.300(c)); habitable ADUs must meet all building code requirements. Attached ADU max size: No explicit attached ADU provisions in §5.301; attached conversions subject to general zoning district standards. Setbacks: Accessory buildings shall comply with the side and rear setbacks for the primary structure of the zoning district applicable to the residential use ft side, Accessory buildings shall comply with the side and rear setbacks for the primary structure of the zoning district applicable to the residential use ft rear. Owner-occupancy: No owner-occupancy requirement found in §5.301 for ADUs in Fort Worth residential zones.
Costs & Fees
ADU permits in Fort Worth: Total estimated permit cost: No codified total fee found; fee schedule not in City Code of Ordinances. Contact the Fort Worth Development Services Department for current fee schedule.
Timeline
No codified processing timeline found in Fort Worth building code; standard building permit review timeline not specified in ordinance
Next Steps
Next steps for building an ADU in Fort Worth: 1. Review full ADU rules including size limits, setbacks, and parking. 2. Apply for an ADU permit through the Fort Worth Development Services Department at https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/departments/development-services/permits. 3. Hire a licensed contractor familiar with TX ADU requirements.
Fort Worth Development Services Department
Phone: (817) 392-2222
Website: https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/departments/development-services
Online Permits: https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/departments/development-services/permits
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU on my Fort Worth property?
Yes. Fort Worth allows accessory dwelling units on residential lots under the Unified Development Code Chapter 5. Detached ADUs are limited to 50% of the primary dwelling's floor area with a 900 sqft maximum. No owner-occupancy requirement in most zones. You'll need a building permit from Fort Worth Development Services. One ADU per single-family lot is the standard allowance.
What zone is my Fort Worth property in?
Use the Fort Worth MapIt GIS at mapit.fortworthtexas.gov to look up your property's zoning designation. Fort Worth uses 'A' zones (A-5, A-7.5, A-10) for single-family residential and letter zones (B, C, D) for higher-density residential. You can also contact Development Services at (817) 392-2222 for zoning verification.
Are short-term rentals (Airbnb) allowed in Fort Worth?
Yes, with registration. Fort Worth requires STR registration for all rentals of 30 days or fewer at $150/year. Both owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied STRs are allowed with registration. Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) must be collected. Your registration number must appear on all booking platform listings. Noise ordinance and occupancy limits apply.
Who provides electricity in Fort Worth?
Oncor Electric is the local transmission and distribution utility in Fort Worth. However, Fort Worth is in Texas's deregulated electricity market — residents choose their retail electric provider (REP) from multiple competitors. For solar interconnection, you work with Oncor Electric regardless of your chosen REP. For natural gas, Atmos Energy serves most of Fort Worth.
Does Fort Worth have flood risk issues?
Yes. Fort Worth is bisected by the Trinity River and its tributaries. FEMA-mapped Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) exist along these waterways. Use the FEMA Flood Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov) to check your property's flood zone status. Properties in SFHAs require flood insurance with federally-backed mortgages. Fort Worth participates in FEMA's Community Rating System, which discounts flood insurance for residents.
Does Fort Worth have historic districts?
Yes. Fort Worth has 8 locally designated historic districts, including the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, Ryan Place, Berkeley Place, and Fairmount/Southside. If your property is in one of these districts or is a designated landmark, the Historic and Cultural Landmarks Commission (HCLC) must approve exterior changes before building permits are issued. Contact the Planning and Development Department for historic overlay information.
Source: Fort Worth Development Services Department — Building Regulations. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source