ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in New Orleans (2026)
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit requirements, fees, and process for New Orleans, LA. Find out if you need a permit and how to apply.
Yes, a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in New Orleans, LA.
A ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in New Orleans, LA. The New Orleans Office of Safety and Permits handles permit applications for New Orleans. Below you will find the current thresholds, fees, and process for obtaining a adu (accessory dwelling unit) permit in New Orleans.
When Is a Permit Required?
When a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Is Required in New Orleans: All ADU/accessory dwelling construction
Permit Fees
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Fees in New Orleans: $1,000–$5,000. Estimated timeline: 6-12 weeks.
Estimated timeline: 6-12 weeks
How to Get a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in New Orleans
Verify whether your project meets the permit threshold in New Orleans: All ADU/accessory dwelling construction.
Prepare your permit application and plans. Contact the New Orleans Office of Safety and Permits at https://nola.gov/safety-and-permits/ for required documentation.
Submit your application online at https://lousiana.my.site.com/ or in person at the New Orleans Office of Safety and Permits.
Pay the permit fee: $1,000–$5,000.
Wait for plan check approval. Estimated timeline: 6-12 weeks.
Schedule required inspections through https://nola.gov/safety-and-permits/. All inspections must pass before project is finalized.
Important: New Orleans Safety and Permits. Historic overlay district approval required where applicable. Flood elevation requirements frequently increase ADU construction costs in New Orleans.
New Orleans Office of Safety and Permits
Phone: (504) 658-7100
Website: https://nola.gov/safety-and-permits/
Online Permits: https://lousiana.my.site.com/
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-4:30pm
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU (accessory dwelling unit) in New Orleans?
Yes. New Orleans allows ADUs (accessory dwellings/carriage houses) in residential zones under the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance (CZO). Detached ADUs are limited to 750 sqft in most residential zones. Properties in historic overlay districts require review from either the Vieux Carré Commission (French Quarter) or the Historic District Landmarks Commission (HDLC) before permits are issued. Flood elevation requirements can significantly affect ADU design and cost since much of New Orleans is below sea level.
Are Airbnb and short-term rentals legal in New Orleans?
Short-term rentals are legal in New Orleans with a permit ($150/year), but the regulatory environment is subject to ongoing change. IMPORTANT: New Orleans STR rules have been revised multiple times through City Council action and legal challenges — verify current requirements before listing. Residential STR permits generally require the property to be the operator's primary residence. Commercial STR permits are available in commercial and mixed-use zones. New Orleans collects Hotel Occupancy Tax on STR rentals.
What is Orleans Parish and how does it differ from New Orleans?
Orleans Parish and the City of New Orleans are coterminous — they are the same jurisdiction. Louisiana uses the term 'parish' instead of 'county.' So when you see references to 'Orleans Parish' and 'City of New Orleans,' they refer to the same governmental entity. There is no unincorporated area in Orleans Parish — the entire parish is the city of New Orleans.
Do I need special permits for construction in a New Orleans historic district?
Yes. New Orleans has extensive historic protections. If your property is in the French Quarter, you need a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Vieux Carré Commission. If your property is in the Garden District, Marigny, Bywater, Tremé, Irish Channel, or other designated historic districts, you need a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Historic District Landmarks Commission (HDLC) before any exterior work, additions, or new construction. These approvals must be obtained before applying for a building permit. Both commissions meet regularly and decisions can be appealed.
What should I know about flood zones before building in New Orleans?
Flood zone considerations are critical for any construction in New Orleans. Most of the city is within FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas and much of it is below sea level. New construction and substantial improvements (exceeding 50% of structure value) typically must be elevated above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE), which adds cost but reduces flood insurance premiums. An elevation certificate from a licensed surveyor is often required. The Army Corps of Engineers levee system provides significant protection, but flood insurance is strongly recommended regardless of zone designation. Contact New Orleans Safety and Permits for the specific BFE requirement for your address.
Can I run a business from my home in New Orleans?
Yes, with limitations. New Orleans CZO allows home occupations that are incidental to the residential use. The business must not attract customer visits, must not require signage, cannot employ non-residents, and must be limited to 25% of the dwelling's floor area. Cottage food businesses (baked goods, jams, candy) are allowed under Louisiana's Cottage Food Law with a $20,000 annual revenue cap. More intensive businesses require commercial zoning or a home occupation variance.
Source: New Orleans Building Code — ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Requirements. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source