ADU Rules in Memphis, TN (2026)
ADU rules, permit requirements, size limits, and fees for Memphis, TN. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Yes, ADUs are allowed in Memphis, TN.
Memphis, TN 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 Memphis, the Memphis Division of Planning and Development handles ADU permit applications. Below you will find the current size limits, setbacks, fees, and timeline for building an ADU in Memphis.
ADU Size Limits
ADU Size Limits in Memphis: Detached ADU: up to 900 sq ft (max height: 20 feet). Attached ADU: 40% of primary dwelling floor area, maximum 900 sqft. Memphis and Shelby County UDC accessory dwelling unit provisions. Detached ADUs allowed up to 900 sqft in qualifying residential zones. JADU is a California-specific concept not applicable in Tennessee.
| Type | Max Size | Max Height |
|---|---|---|
| Detached ADU | 900 sq ft | 20 feet |
| Attached ADU | 40% of primary dwelling floor area, maximum 900 sqft | Per zone height limit |
Permit Fees
ADU Permit Fees in Memphis: Plan check fee: $150–$800. Building permit fee: 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 or N/A. Total estimated permit cost: $1,500–$6,500 total fees. Memphis permit fees reflect a mid-size Southern city. MLGW (Memphis Light, Gas, and Water) connection fees apply for new utility services.
| 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 | $1,500–$6,500 total fees |
Permit Timeline
Memphis ADU Permit Timeline: 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. Apply through the Memphis Division of Planning and Development online permit portal. Phone: (901) 636-6619.
Setback Requirements
ADU Setback Requirements in Memphis: Front setback: follows zone standard. Side setback: 5 feet. Rear setback: 5 feet. Memphis UDC accessory dwelling unit setbacks. Minimum 5 ft rear and side setbacks for detached ADUs. Alley-facing lots may place ADU near alley with reduced rear setback.
Parking Requirements
Parking Requirements: 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.
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: 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. Memphis allows one accessory dwelling unit per single-family lot. The Memphis housing market has significant vacancy in some older neighborhoods, which can affect the economics of ADU investment.
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
Historic District Considerations
Historic District Requirements: Memphis has 20 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. Memphis has significant historic resources reflecting its musical heritage (Beale Street Historic District, Sun Studio area), Victorian-era neighborhoods (Victorian Village), and mid-century commercial corridors. Memphis Landmarks Commission designates local landmarks. South Main Arts District, Crosstown, and Midtown are areas with both historic character and active revitalization. Certificate of Appropriateness may be required for exterior modifications to designated properties. Look up historic district boundaries at: https://www.memphistn.gov/government/planning-development/historic-preservation
Frequently 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?
No, Memphis does not require additional parking for ADUs.
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in Memphis?
No, owner-occupancy is not required for ADUs in Memphis.
Source: Memphis and Shelby County Unified Development Code (UDC) — Accessory Dwelling Unit provisions. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source