ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Tulsa (2026)
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit requirements, fees, and process for Tulsa, OK. Find out if you need a permit and how to apply.
Yes, a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Tulsa, OK.
A ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Tulsa, OK. The City of Tulsa Development Services handles permit applications for Tulsa. Below you will find the current thresholds, fees, and process for obtaining a adu (accessory dwelling unit) permit in Tulsa.
When Is a Permit Required?
When a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Is Required in Tulsa: All ADU construction
Permit Fees
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Fees in Tulsa: $1,200–$5,500. Estimated timeline: 4-7 weeks.
Estimated timeline: 4-7 weeks
How to Get a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Tulsa
Verify whether your project meets the permit threshold in Tulsa: All ADU construction.
Prepare your permit application and plans. Contact the City of Tulsa Development Services at https://www.cityoftulsa.org/ops/planning for required documentation.
Submit your application online at https://etulsa.cityoftulsa.org/ or in person at the City of Tulsa Development Services.
Pay the permit fee: $1,200–$5,500.
Wait for plan check approval. Estimated timeline: 4-7 weeks.
Schedule required inspections through https://etulsa.cityoftulsa.org/. All inspections must pass before project is finalized.
Important: Tulsa building permit required. ADU now allowed by-right in RS zones per 2020 zoning reform.
City of Tulsa Development Services
Phone: (918) 596-9456
Website: https://www.cityoftulsa.org/ops/planning
Online Permits: https://etulsa.cityoftulsa.org/
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Tulsa's 2020 zoning reform and how does it affect me?
Tulsa adopted a comprehensive new Zoning Code in 2020 that replaced a decades-old framework. Key changes affecting homeowners: ADUs are now allowed by-right in all RS zones (no longer requires conditional use permit), parking minimums were reduced in mixed-use and transit-adjacent areas, and new form-based RS-4 and MX zones were created for compact development. If you want to build a backyard cottage or convert your garage to a rental unit, the new code makes it easier than before.
Can I build an ADU on my Tulsa property?
Yes. Since the 2020 zoning reform, ADUs are allowed by-right in all RS (single-family residential) zones in Tulsa. Maximum size is typically 850 sqft. The big change from before 2020: you no longer need a conditional use permit (discretionary approval) — you apply for a building permit directly. No owner-occupancy requirement. Oklahoma has no statewide ADU law, so Tulsa's local rules govern.
Does Tulsa have short-term rental (Airbnb) restrictions?
Yes. Tulsa requires a Short-Term Rental License for rentals under 30 days. The annual fee is approximately $125. License number must appear in all listing platform postings. Occupancy limits (2 per bedroom), noise ordinance, and parking rules apply. Oklahoma's 4.5% Hotel/Motel Tax plus Tulsa local lodging tax applies to STR income.
Is Tulsa's Art Deco district designated — do I need special permits for exterior changes?
Yes. Tulsa's Art Deco downtown and surrounding historic districts are designated at both local and National Register levels. If your property is a contributing structure in a local historic district, you may need a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Tulsa Preservation Commission for exterior changes including roofing, windows, siding, and additions. Contact the OPS Planning Department to verify your property's historic status.
Can I run a home-based food business in Tulsa?
Yes. Oklahoma's Cottage Food Law allows home-based food production and sale up to $50,000 per year without a food establishment permit. Allowed products include baked goods, jams, candy, and similar shelf-stable items. No state registration or permit required. Direct-to-consumer sales from home, farmers markets, and community events are permitted. Proper labeling is required.
Source: Tulsa Building Code — ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Requirements. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source