Arlington Zoning & Permits
Zoning rules, permit requirements, and building codes for Arlington, TX. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Quick Facts
Population
394,266
Total Zone Types
20
Planning Department
City of Arlington Planning Department
Zoning Map
Interactive online map
County
Tarrant County
Metro Area
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington
Arlington Zoning System
The Arlington zoning system includes 20 total zone classifications: 7 residential zones (R-1A, R-1B, R-2, R-3, R-4, and others) and 4 commercial zones (C-1, C-2, C-3, OT), as well as 2 mixed-use zones (MU-1, MU-2) and 2 industrial zones (I-1, I-2). Arlington zoning is governed by the Unified Development Code (UDC), administered by the Arlington Planning Department. Arlington is located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, midway between Dallas and Fort Worth, in Tarrant County. The city is notable as home to AT&T Stadium (Dallas Cowboys) and Globe Life Field (Texas Rangers), making it a major entertainment and events destination. Texas has no statewide ADU preemption law — Arlington's ADU allowances are governed by the local UDC. Arlington is one of the largest cities in the US without a public transit system, reflecting its automobile-oriented suburban development pattern. The city maintains an interactive zoning map for property lookup.
View Arlington Zoning Map (interactive online map)
Building & Planning Departments
The Arlington Building Department (City of Arlington Development Services) handles all building permit applications, inspections, and code enforcement. You can reach them by phone at (817) 459-6502 or apply online through their permit portal. Office hours: Mon-Fri 7:30am-5:30pm. For zoning questions and land use determinations, contact the City of Arlington Planning Department at (817) 459-6502. Zoning information is available online. Always verify current requirements directly with the department before beginning any project, as regulations and fees may have changed since this data was last verified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU on my Arlington property?
Yes. Arlington's Unified Development Code allows accessory dwelling units in single-family residential zones. Detached ADUs are limited to 800 sqft. Texas has no statewide ADU preemption law, so Arlington's local UDC governs. You'll need a permit from Arlington Development Services and must comply with setback and lot coverage requirements.
Why doesn't Arlington have public transit?
Arlington is one of the largest US cities without a public transit system — a deliberate choice reflecting its suburban development model. The city is entirely car-dependent within city limits. The TRE (Trinity Railway Express) connects the region's downtowns (Dallas and Fort Worth) but has no station in Arlington. This means any planning for ADUs or commercial development must account for car parking needs. The city has discussed transit options for years, particularly for major events at AT&T Stadium.
Are short-term rentals allowed near AT&T Stadium?
Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Arlington with registration ($150/year). Properties near AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field can be highly lucrative for event-night rentals. However, you must have an STR registration number posted in all listings. Event-related parking restrictions and crowd management near the entertainment district may affect access during Cowboys and Rangers games. Arlington Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) applies to all STR rentals.
What solar incentives are available in Arlington?
Arlington is in the ERCOT deregulated electricity market, meaning you choose your own retail electricity provider. This gives solar homeowners the freedom to select a provider with favorable solar buyback rates. You'll need an electrical permit from Arlington Development Services and an interconnection agreement with Oncor Electric (the local transmission and distribution company). Texas has no state solar mandate, but solar is cost-effective in North Texas with approximately 230 sunny days per year.
How do I find my zoning in Arlington?
You can find your zoning designation using Arlington's online GIS zoning map at the Planning Department website. Your zoning determines what you can build, setback requirements, height limits, and lot coverage allowances. The Arlington Unified Development Code (UDC) explains all regulations for each zone. Contact Arlington Planning at (817) 459-6502 with specific questions.
Source: Arlington Unified Development Code (UDC). Last verified April 6, 2026. View source