ADU Rules in Chattanooga, TN (2026)
ADU rules, permit requirements, size limits, and fees for Chattanooga, TN. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Whether ADUs are allowed in Chattanooga, TN has not been confirmed — see the official source before proceeding.
Whether Chattanooga, TN permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) has not been confirmed from an official source. ADUs — also called granny flats, in-law units, or secondary suites — are secondary housing units on a single-family or multifamily lot. Contact the local building department at (423) 643-5894 to verify current ADU rules before proceeding, as regulations may have changed since this data was last reviewed.
ADU Size Limits
ADU Size Limits in Chattanooga: 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 Chattanooga: Plan check fee: Varies. Building permit fee: Varies. Impact fees: None. School fees: None or N/A. Total estimated permit cost: Varies.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Plan Check | $100–$600 |
| Building Permit | Based on construction value — typically $500–$2,200 |
| Impact Fees | Chattanooga charges utility connection fees through EPB and AWWA |
| School Fees | None |
| Total Estimate | See official source |
Permit Timeline
Chattanooga ADU Permit Timeline: Permit timeline has not been confirmed — contact the department for current processing times. Apply through the local building department online permit portal. Phone: (423) 643-5894.
Setback Requirements
ADU Setback Requirements in Chattanooga: Front setback: follows zone standard. Side setback: no minimum. Rear setback: no minimum.
Parking Requirements
Parking Requirements: Parking requirements have not been confirmed — see official source.
Restrictions & Requirements
- ADU must be on same lot as primary single-family dwelling
- Minimum lot size requirements by zone
- ADU cannot be separately conveyed from primary lot
- Total lot coverage including ADU must meet zone limits
- Chattanooga STR registration required if ADU is used for short-term rental
- Must comply with Tennessee Residential Code
How Many ADUs Are Allowed?
Number of ADUs Allowed in Chattanooga: Single-family lots: not confirmed — see official source. Multifamily properties: not confirmed — see official source.
- Single-Family Lots
- 1 ADU per single-family lot in qualifying R zones
- Multifamily Properties
- Additional units may be allowed by right in R-3 and R-4 zones
Statewide Preemption
ADU Preemption
We could not confirm a statewide ADU preemption statute for Tennessee.
View Tennessee preemption detailsFrequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Chattanooga?
Yes. Chattanooga, TN allows accessory dwelling units. On a single-family lot you can build 1 ADU per single-family lot in qualifying R zones.
How big can an ADU be in Chattanooga?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in Chattanooga is 800 square feet.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Chattanooga?
The typical ADU permit timeline in Chattanooga is Chattanooga Development Resources permit: typically 3-6 weeks for residential permits. 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 Chattanooga?
Chattanooga parking rules for ADUs: 1 parking space required per ADU. Chattanooga has limited public transit — CARTA (Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority) and the free electric shuttle downtown. Parking waivers rare outside downtown.
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in Chattanooga?
Owner-occupancy requirement in Chattanooga: Chattanooga does not require owner-occupancy as a condition of ADU approval. Both units may be independently rented.
Source: Chattanooga City Code — Accessory Dwelling Unit and Zoning provisions. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source