ADU Rules in Memphis, TN (2026)
ADU rules, permit requirements, size limits, and fees for Memphis, TN. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Whether ADUs are allowed in Memphis, TN has not been confirmed — see the official source before proceeding.
Whether Memphis, 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 through their official website 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 Memphis: 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 Memphis: 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 | $150–$800 |
| Building Permit | Based on construction value — typically $600–$2,800 |
| Impact Fees | Memphis charges utility connection fees; impact fees are less extensive than faster-growing metros |
| School Fees | None |
| Total Estimate | See official source |
Permit Timeline
Memphis 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. Contact them through their official website for current contact information.
Setback Requirements
ADU Setback Requirements in Memphis: 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
- Lot must meet minimum size requirements for the zone
- ADU cannot be separately sold from primary parcel
- Total lot coverage including ADU must comply with zone limits
- Memphis STR license required if ADU is rented as short-term rental
- Must meet Memphis Building Code (IBC/IRC as locally adopted)
How Many ADUs Are Allowed?
Number of ADUs Allowed in Memphis: 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
- Varies by zone — RD (Two-Family) and R-3+ zones may allow additional units
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 Memphis?
Yes. Memphis, 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 Memphis?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in Memphis is 900 square feet.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Memphis?
The typical ADU permit timeline in Memphis is Memphis Division of Planning and Development permit: typically 4-8 weeks for residential construction permits. Memphis uses an online permitting portal. Construction typically 4-14 months.. Total estimated permit fees are $1,500–$6,500 total fees.
Do I need extra parking for an ADU in Memphis?
Memphis parking rules for ADUs: 1 parking space required per ADU. Memphis is auto-dependent — MATA (Memphis Area Transit Authority) bus service is available but not sufficient to support parking waivers for most locations.
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in Memphis?
Owner-occupancy requirement in Memphis: Memphis does not impose owner-occupancy as a condition for ADU approval. Both primary dwelling and ADU may be rented.
Source: Memphis and Shelby County Unified Development Code (UDC) — Accessory Dwelling Unit provisions. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source