Dallas Zoning & Permits
Zoning rules, permit requirements, and building codes for Dallas, TX. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Quick Facts
Population
1,304,379
Total Zone Types
30
Planning Department
Dallas City Planning Department (Sustainable Development and Construction)
Zoning Map
Interactive online map
County
Dallas County
Metro Area
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington
Dallas Zoning System
The Dallas zoning system includes 30 total zone classifications: 13 residential zones (R-1ac, R-1/2ac, R-16, R-13, R-10, and others) and 4 commercial zones (CR, CS, CA-1, CA-2), as well as 3 mixed-use zones (MU-1, MU-2, MU-3) and 3 industrial zones (IR, IM, LI). Dallas's zoning is governed by the Dallas Development Code, primarily Chapter 51A (adopted 1987), administered by the Sustainable Development and Construction Department. Dallas uses a conventional use-based zoning framework. Unlike neighboring Houston (which has no zoning ordinance), Dallas has a comprehensive zoning code. Dallas also has numerous Planned Development (PD) Districts that modify base zoning standards for specific areas. Dallas has historically been more conservative on multifamily and ADU zoning than Austin, though recent reforms have expanded housing options. Texas has no statewide ADU law, so Dallas regulations are entirely local. The city maintains an interactive zoning map for property lookup.
View Dallas Zoning Map (interactive online map)
Building & Planning Departments
The Dallas Building Department (Dallas Sustainable Development and Construction Department) handles all building permit applications, inspections, and code enforcement. You can reach them by phone at (214) 948-4480 or apply online through their permit portal. Office hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-4:30pm. For zoning questions and land use determinations, contact the Dallas City Planning Department (Sustainable Development and Construction) at (214) 948-4400. 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.
Building Department
Dallas Sustainable Development and Construction Department
(214) 948-4480
Visit WebsitePlanning Department
Dallas City Planning Department (Sustainable Development and Construction)
(214) 948-4400
Visit WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Dallas?
Yes, Dallas allows accessory living quarters (ADUs) on single-family residential lots. Unlike Austin's HOME Ordinance, Dallas has more conservative ADU rules — limited to roughly 50% of the primary dwelling floor area or up to 1,000 sqft. Texas has no statewide ADU law, so Dallas regulations apply. Importantly, Dallas does not charge impact fees, making ADU construction somewhat less expensive than in Austin.
What zoning district is my Dallas property in?
You can look up your Dallas property's zoning at the Dallas GIS portal (gis.dallascityhall.com). Most single-family neighborhoods are zoned R-7.5 (7,500 sqft minimum lot), R-10, or R-13. Dallas also has many Planned Development (PD) districts with custom standards. The Dallas Development Code Chapter 51A governs most zoning standards.
Does Dallas have STR (Airbnb/VRBO) registration requirements?
Yes, Dallas requires STR registration ($150/year). Rentals of 30 days or fewer require a registered unit. Texas STR regulation was shaped by state law — AZ SB 1350 equivalent preemption does not exist at state level for Texas, so Dallas has authority to regulate STRs. Maximum occupancy limits and noise ordinance compliance are required.
What is the forwardDallas 2.0 plan?
forwardDallas 2.0 is Dallas's comprehensive land use and zoning reform process, updating the 1998 forwardDallas plan. The process is examining housing production, ADU policies, transit-oriented development, and development code modernization. The Dallas City Plan Commission and City Council are the decision-making bodies. Changes from this process could significantly affect ADU allowances and residential development standards.
Are there historic preservation restrictions on my Dallas property?
Dallas has Landmark Structures and Historic Overlay Districts in neighborhoods like Swiss Avenue, Munger Place, Bryan Place, and Kessler Park. If your property is designated, you'll need a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Dallas Landmark Commission for exterior changes. You can check your property's historic status through the Dallas Preservation website.
Source: Dallas Development Code Chapter 51A — Dallas Zoning Ordinance; accessory structure and accessory living quarters provisions. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source