Can I Build Second Story Addition in Arlington, TX? (2026)
Find out if you can build a second story addition in Arlington, TX. Rules, permit requirements, costs, and next steps.
Adding a second story in Arlington, TX is possible in most zones, subject to height limits and structural permit requirements.
A second story addition is one of the most complex home improvement projects in Arlington, TX. It requires a full building permit, structural engineering review, and must comply with the height limits for your zoning district. Unlike a ground-floor addition, a second story changes the roofline and structural load path of your entire home, triggering stricter engineering requirements. In Arlington, zone height limits range from varies feet in R-1A zones — verify your zone before planning.
Second Story Addition Rules in Arlington
Second Story Addition Rules in Arlington: Building permit required: Yes — all second story additions require a permit. Example height limit (R-1A): varies feet. Structural engineering drawings required. Setbacks apply to the full structure height.
Costs & Fees
Contact the local building department for current permit fees. Budget separately for structural engineering.
Next Steps
Next steps for adding a second story in Arlington: 1. Hire a structural engineer to assess your existing foundation and framing capacity. 2. Confirm your zone height limit and verify the addition meets all setback requirements. 3. Submit full structural plans and permit application to the local building department. 4. Inspections required at foundation reinforcement, framing, shear panels, and final.
City of Arlington Development Services
Phone: See official source
Website: https://www.arlingtontx.gov/Business/Planning-Development/Permitting-Inspections
Online Permits: https://css.arlingtontx.gov/
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU on my Arlington property?
Yes. Arlington's Unified Development Code allows accessory dwelling units in single-family residential zones. Detached ADUs are limited to 800 sqft. Texas has no statewide ADU preemption law, so Arlington's local UDC governs. You'll need a permit from Arlington Development Services and must comply with setback and lot coverage requirements.
Why doesn't Arlington have public transit?
Arlington is one of the largest US cities without a public transit system — a deliberate choice reflecting its suburban development model. The city is entirely car-dependent within city limits. The TRE (Trinity Railway Express) connects the region's downtowns (Dallas and Fort Worth) but has no station in Arlington. This means any planning for ADUs or commercial development must account for car parking needs. The city has discussed transit options for years, particularly for major events at AT&T Stadium.
Are short-term rentals allowed near AT&T Stadium?
Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Arlington with registration ($150/year). Properties near AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field can be highly lucrative for event-night rentals. However, you must have an STR registration number posted in all listings. Event-related parking restrictions and crowd management near the entertainment district may affect access during Cowboys and Rangers games. Arlington Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) applies to all STR rentals.
What solar incentives are available in Arlington?
Arlington is in the ERCOT deregulated electricity market, meaning you choose your own retail electricity provider. This gives solar homeowners the freedom to select a provider with favorable solar buyback rates. You'll need an electrical permit from Arlington Development Services and an interconnection agreement with Oncor Electric (the local transmission and distribution company). Texas has no state solar mandate, but solar is cost-effective in North Texas with approximately 230 sunny days per year.
How do I find my zoning in Arlington?
You can find your zoning designation using Arlington's online GIS zoning map at the Planning Department website. Your zoning determines what you can build, setback requirements, height limits, and lot coverage allowances. The Arlington Unified Development Code (UDC) explains all regulations for each zone. Contact Arlington Planning at (817) 459-6502 with specific questions.
Source: City of Arlington Development Services — Building Regulations. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source