ADU Rules in New Orleans, LA (2026)
ADU rules, permit requirements, size limits, and fees for New Orleans, LA. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Whether ADUs are allowed in New Orleans, LA has not been confirmed — see the official source before proceeding.
Whether New Orleans, LA permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) has not been confirmed from an official source. ADUs — also called granny flats, in-law units, or secondary suites — are secondary housing units on a single-family or multifamily lot. Contact the local building department at (504) 658-7200 to verify current ADU rules before proceeding, as regulations may have changed since this data was last reviewed.
ADU Size Limits
ADU Size Limits in New Orleans: Detached ADU: size varies by zoning — see official source (max height: 14 feet). Attached ADU: size varies by zoning — see official source.
| Type | Max Size | Max Height |
|---|---|---|
| Detached ADU | See official source | 14 feet · Verified May 31, 2026 · Source |
| Attached ADU | See official source | See official source |
Permit Fees
ADU Permit Fees in New Orleans: Plan check fee: Varies. Building permit fee: Varies. Impact fees: None. School fees: None or N/A. Total estimated permit cost: Varies.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Plan Check | $200–$1,500 |
| Building Permit | Based on construction value — typically $500–$3,000 |
| Impact Fees | None |
| School Fees | None |
| Total Estimate | See official source |
Permit Timeline
New Orleans ADU Permit Timeline: Permit timeline has not been confirmed — contact the department for current processing times. Apply through the local building department online permit portal. Phone: (504) 658-7200.
Setback Requirements
ADU Setback Requirements in New Orleans: Front setback: follows zone standard. Side setback: 3 feet. Rear setback: 3 feet.
Parking Requirements
Parking Requirements: Parking requirements have not been confirmed — see official source.
Restrictions & Requirements
- ADU must be on same lot as primary residence
- Historic District Landmarks Commission (HDLC) approval required for properties in local historic districts
- Vieux Carré Commission (VCC) approval required for French Quarter properties
- Flood elevation requirements may affect ADU design significantly — much of New Orleans is below sea level
- ADU cannot be sold separately from the primary lot
- STR licensing for ADU rental requires separate STR permit — subject to ongoing regulatory changes
How Many ADUs Are Allowed?
Number of ADUs Allowed in New Orleans: Single-family lots: not confirmed — see official source. Multifamily properties: not confirmed — see official source.
- Single-Family Lots
- 1 accessory dwelling unit per lot
- Multifamily Properties
- Subject to CZO density provisions by zone
Statewide Preemption
ADU Preemption
We could not confirm a statewide ADU preemption statute for Louisiana.
View Louisiana preemption detailsFrequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in New Orleans?
ADU rules in New Orleans are restricted. Check the specific regulations for your zone.
How big can an ADU be in New Orleans?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in New Orleans is Not established in CZO — no dedicated ADU ordinance square feet.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in New Orleans?
The typical ADU permit timeline in New Orleans is Not established in CZO — no dedicated ADU ordinance. Total estimated permit fees are Total ADU project cost not established in CZO — no dedicated ADU ordinance; overall cost unknown.
Do I need extra parking for an ADU in New Orleans?
New Orleans parking rules for ADUs: Not established in CZO — no dedicated ADU ordinance
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in New Orleans?
Owner-occupancy requirement in New Orleans: Not established in CZO — no dedicated ADU ordinance
Source: New Orleans Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance (CZO), Chapter 21 — Accessory Uses and Structures. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source