ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Houston (2026)
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit requirements, fees, and process for Houston, TX. Find out if you need a permit and how to apply.
Yes, a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Houston, TX.
A ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Houston, TX. The Houston Permitting Center (HPC) handles permit applications for Houston. Below you will find the current thresholds, fees, and process for obtaining a adu (accessory dwelling unit) permit in Houston.
When Is a Permit Required?
When a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Is Required in Houston: All new residential construction
Permit Fees
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Fees in Houston: $600–$4,000. Estimated timeline: 2-6 weeks.
Estimated timeline: 2-6 weeks
How to Get a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Houston
Verify whether your project meets the permit threshold in Houston: All new residential construction.
Prepare your permit application and plans. Contact the Houston Permitting Center (HPC) at https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/ for required documentation.
Submit your application online at https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/ or in person at the Houston Permitting Center (HPC).
Pay the permit fee: $600–$4,000.
Wait for plan check approval. Estimated timeline: 2-6 weeks.
Schedule required inspections through https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/. All inspections must pass before project is finalized.
Important: Houston HPC building permit required for ADU construction. No zoning approval needed. Deed restriction search strongly recommended before proceeding.
Houston Permitting Center (HPC)
Phone: (832) 394-8803
Website: https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/
Online Permits: https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Houston have zoning?
No. Houston is the largest US city without a traditional zoning code. Houston voters rejected zoning in 1948, 1962, and 1993. Land use is regulated by private deed restrictions (which cover about 45% of the city), Houston's Development Code (which sets setbacks, parking, and lot size standards), and state/federal regulations. In areas without deed restrictions, almost any use is theoretically allowed.
Can I build an ADU or secondary unit in Houston?
Yes. Because Houston has no zoning, there is no zoning prohibition on ADUs. You need a building permit from the Houston Permitting Center and must comply with setback requirements (10 ft from street) and building code. The main restriction to check is private deed restrictions in your subdivision — roughly 45% of Houston has deed restrictions that may limit additional dwelling units. Search Harris County Clerk records to find your deed restrictions.
How do I find out if my Houston property has deed restrictions?
Search the Harris County Clerk's official records at hcresearch.harriscountytx.gov or in person at 201 Caroline St, Houston. Deed restrictions are filed as legal documents and recorded against the property. They typically appear in your subdivision's original plat filing. Your title company and real estate attorney can also search for restrictions.
Does Houston require permits for construction projects?
Yes. Despite having no zoning, Houston does require building permits for construction through the Houston Permitting Center. All new construction, additions, and renovations require permits. However, unlike zoning cities, Houston's permits review only building code compliance (structural safety, electrical, plumbing) — not land use compatibility with neighbors.
Are there short-term rental (Airbnb) rules in Houston?
Houston currently has no registration requirement or specific regulations for short-term rentals. However, Texas and Houston Hotel Occupancy Taxes apply (approximately 13% combined) and must be remitted. Platforms like Airbnb collect and remit the tax on behalf of hosts. Deed restrictions in your subdivision may prohibit short-term rentals — check your deed restrictions before listing.
What should I know about building near a Houston creek or bayou?
Houston has significant flood risk — approximately one-third of Harris County flooded during Hurricane Harvey (2017). FEMA floodplain maps designate many Houston properties as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). New construction in SFHAs must be elevated above base flood elevation. Post-Harvey drainage rules require managing the first 1.5 inches of rainfall on-site for any new development. Check FEMA's Flood Map Service Center for your property's flood zone status.
Source: Houston Building Code — ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Requirements. Last verified April 8, 2026. View source