ADU Rules in Tulsa, OK (2026)
ADU rules, permit requirements, size limits, and fees for Tulsa, OK. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Yes, ADUs are allowed in Tulsa, OK.
Tulsa, OK permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on residential properties. ADUs — also called granny flats, in-law units, backyard cottages, or secondary suites — are secondary housing units on a single-family or multifamily lot. State and local law governs the approval process. In Tulsa, the City of Tulsa Development Services handles ADU permit applications. Below you will find the current size limits, setbacks, fees, and timeline for building an ADU in Tulsa.
ADU Size Limits
ADU Size Limits in Tulsa: Detached ADU: size varies by zoning — see official source (max height: varies — see official source). Attached ADU: size varies by zoning — see official source.
| Type | Max Size | Max Height |
|---|---|---|
| Detached ADU | See official source | See official source |
| Attached ADU | See official source | See official source |
Permit Fees
ADU Permit Fees in Tulsa: Plan check fee: $150–$700. Building permit fee: Based on construction value — typically $500–$2,200. Impact fees: Tulsa charges utility connection fees; general impact fees are modest compared to high-growth metros. School fees: None or N/A. Total estimated permit cost: Varies.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Plan Check | $150–$700 |
| Building Permit | Based on construction value — typically $500–$2,200 |
| Impact Fees | Tulsa charges utility connection fees; general impact fees are modest compared to high-growth metros |
| School Fees | None |
| Total Estimate | See official source |
Permit Timeline
Tulsa ADU Permit Timeline: Tulsa Development Services permit: typically 3-5 weeks for residential ADU permits. Tulsa uses the eTulsa online permitting system. Construction typically 4-12 months. Apply through the City of Tulsa Development Services online permit portal. Phone: (918) 596-9456.
Setback Requirements
ADU Setback Requirements in Tulsa: Front setback: follows zone standard. Side setback: no minimum. Rear setback: no minimum.
Parking Requirements
Parking Requirements: 1 parking space required per ADU. However, Tulsa's 2020 zoning reform reduced parking requirements for ADUs near transit corridors. ADU parking may be provided on driveway.
Restrictions & Requirements
- ADU must be on same lot as primary single-family dwelling
- Lot must meet minimum size requirements for the RS zone
- ADU cannot be separately conveyed from main lot
- Total lot coverage (house + ADU + impervious) must meet zone limits
- Short-term rental of ADU requires Tulsa STR license
- ADU must comply with Oklahoma Residential Building Code (IRC as adopted)
How Many ADUs Are Allowed?
Number of ADUs Allowed in Tulsa: Single-family lots: 1 ADU per single-family lot in RS zones. Multifamily properties: Varies by zone; RM zones may allow additional units. Tulsa 2020 zoning reform allows ADUs by-right in all RS (residential single-family) zones without requiring a conditional use permit. This was a significant reform from the prior code that required discretionary approval.
- Single-Family Lots
- 1 ADU per single-family lot in RS zones
- Multifamily Properties
- Varies by zone; RM zones may allow additional units
Statewide Preemption
ADU Preemption
We could not confirm a statewide ADU preemption statute for Oklahoma.
View Oklahoma preemption detailsHistoric District Considerations
Historic District Requirements: Tulsa has 14 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. Tulsa has nationally recognized historic resources including Oil Capital Historic District (Art Deco downtown), Brady Arts District, and numerous Midtown neighborhoods. Tulsa Preservation Commission oversees design review for exterior changes to contributing structures in local and National Register districts. Tulsa's Art Deco architecture from the 1920s-1930s oil boom is particularly significant — the city has more Art Deco buildings than any US city outside Manhattan. Look up historic district boundaries at: https://www.cityoftulsa.org/ops/planning/historic-preservation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Tulsa?
Yes. Tulsa, OK allows accessory dwelling units. On a single-family lot you can build 1 ADU per single-family lot in RS zones.
How big can an ADU be in Tulsa?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in Tulsa is 850 square feet.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Tulsa?
The typical ADU permit timeline in Tulsa is Tulsa Development Services permit: typically 3-5 weeks for residential ADU permits. Tulsa uses the eTulsa online permitting system. Construction typically 4-12 months.. Total estimated permit fees are $1,200–$5,500 total fees.
Do I need extra parking for an ADU in Tulsa?
Tulsa parking rules for ADUs: 1 parking space required per ADU. However, Tulsa's 2020 zoning reform reduced parking requirements for ADUs near transit corridors. ADU parking may be provided on driveway.
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in Tulsa?
Owner-occupancy requirement in Tulsa: Tulsa's 2020 zoning code removed the owner-occupancy requirement that previously restricted ADU rentals. Property owner may rent ADU without residing on property.
Source: Tulsa Zoning Code Title 42 — Accessory Dwelling Unit provisions (2020 comprehensive revision). Last verified April 6, 2026. View source