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: 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: $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: 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: 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: no minimum. Rear setback: no minimum.
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
Statewide Preemption
ADU Preemption
We could not confirm a statewide ADU preemption statute for Tennessee.
View Tennessee preemption detailsHistoric 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.develop901.com/memphis-landmarks-commission
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?
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