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.
No, ADUs are not currently permitted in New Orleans, LA.
New Orleans, LA does not currently permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) under its zoning code. ADUs — also called granny flats, in-law units, or secondary suites — are secondary housing units on a single-family or multifamily lot. Contact the New Orleans Office of Safety and Permits at (504) 658-7100 for the most current information, as regulations may have changed since this data was last verified. Check state-level ADU laws that may preempt local restrictions.
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: $200–$1,500. Building permit fee: Based on construction value — typically $500–$3,000. 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: Not established in CZO — no dedicated ADU ordinance Apply through the New Orleans Office of Safety and Permits online permit portal. Phone: (504) 658-7100.
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: Not established in CZO — no dedicated ADU ordinance
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: 1 accessory dwelling unit per lot. Multifamily properties: Subject to CZO density provisions by zone. New Orleans CZO allows one ADU per single-family residential lot. In historic urban neighborhoods, carriage houses are a traditional ADU form and are generally supported by the CZO framework.
- 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 detailsHistoric District Considerations
Historic District Requirements: New Orleans has 15 historic districts where additional design review may be required for ADU construction. Design review approval is required before obtaining a building permit for properties in historic overlay zones. New Orleans has extensive historic protections. The Vieux Carré Commission (VCC) governs the French Quarter (Vieux Carré). The Historic District Landmarks Commission (HDLC) governs approximately 15 locally-designated historic districts including the Garden District, Marigny, Bywater, Tremé, Irish Channel, and others. Both bodies require a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior modifications, demolitions, and new construction. New Orleans also has over 50 areas listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Historic property owners may be eligible for Louisiana state historic tax credits (25% state credit) and federal historic tax credits (20% federal credit) for certified rehabilitation projects. Look up historic district boundaries at: https://nola.gov/city-planning/historic-preservation/
Frequently 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