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: up to 850 sq ft (max height: 25 feet). Attached ADU: 50% of primary dwelling floor area. Tulsa Zoning Code (2020 overhaul) ADU provisions. Detached accessory dwellings allowed up to 850 sqft in RS zones. The 2020 code reform was among the first major zoning code updates in Oklahoma's largest cities. JADU is a California-specific concept not used in Oklahoma.
| Type | Max Size | Max Height |
|---|---|---|
| Detached ADU | 850 sq ft | 25 feet |
| Attached ADU | 50% of primary dwelling floor area | Per zone height limit |
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: $1,200–$5,500 total fees. Tulsa's ADU permitting fees are among the more affordable in Oklahoma. Water and sewer connection fees apply if ADU has independent plumbing.
| 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 | $1,200–$5,500 total fees |
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: 3 feet. Rear setback: 5 feet. Tulsa Zoning Code accessory dwelling unit setbacks. Reduced side setback of 3 ft for ADUs was part of the 2020 zoning reform to encourage ADU development. Must maintain 5 ft rear setback.
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
Historic 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?
No, Tulsa does not require additional parking for ADUs.
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in Tulsa?
No, owner-occupancy is not required for ADUs in Tulsa.
Source: Tulsa Zoning Code Title 42 — Accessory Dwelling Unit provisions (2020 comprehensive revision). Last verified April 6, 2026. View source