Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use an ADU as a separate rental property?

  Absolutely. This is one of the best and most encouraged uses of ADUs. One of ADU's goals is to build units quickly and inexpensively enough so that they can be rented at or below market rate, thus helping to curb spiking rental rates.

• Do you build ADUs outside of the City of Austin?

  Not yet. ADU does plan to expand outside of Austin as soon as feasible.

• How long does it take to build?

  We're still gathering data points on how quickly we can build adus, but on average 6-9 months.

• I currently have rooftop solar. Will I be able to put solar on the roof of the ADU too?

  Yes! We are still looking for a local company to partner with, but we can contract with the original installer of the existing system to add solar to the ADU.

• I understand the code has changed in Austin regarding how big ADUs can be – can you summarize the current regulations?

  The previous land development code - which one can still develop under - limited ADUs to 0.15 FAR (FAR = floor-to-area ratio - floor area of your structure as compared to the size of your lot) or 1100 square feet, whichever is smaller. For instance, if you had a 6000sf lot, your ADU would be limited to 900 square feet.

  With the addition of the HOME Amendment Phase 1, landowners have a lot more options regarding secondary and now tertiary structures. In practical terms, the new limit for a single structure is .4 FAR or 2300sf, whichever is larger.

• Can I sell my ADU?

  Sure can! ADU has a robust team of partners who can assist you in the process of setting up a site condo regime which will allow you to sell your ADU and retain your main residence.

• Does your ADU service include design/build or construction management services?

  Because ADU is a design-build company we can offer services from concept to keys. Wherever you are in the process - whether it be in the design phase or whether your project is permitted and ready for construction - ADU can help you reach your goals with your ADU build.

• How many stories can my ADU be?

  If you are developing under the previous code the height limit is 32’ while the HOME Amendment allows for up to 35’. The number of stories depends on the design and configuration of the home, but three stories are allowed.

• How far away from my house does the ADU have to be?

  The prescriptive requirement of 10’ separation difference between the main house and adu has been removed from the code and now the prevailing Building and Fire Codes dictate structure spacing. While you can build structures closer together than 10’, it should be noted that openings will be limited, and fire-rated materials will be required on the facades that face each other. If you have room to set your structures at least 10’ apart, that would be considered best practice.

• Does an ADU require driveway access?

  No, Austin has removed all its requirements for off-street parking.

• How close to my property line can the ADU be?

  In Austin, the typical side yard setback is 5'-0" and 10'-0" at the rear.

• Do I need a permit?

  Yes, you will need a building permit as well as trade permits for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and right-of-way if you are working in the street (driveway apron, adding parking, etc).

• Can I use a home equity loan to build an ADU?

  Yes! Provided you have enough equity to cover at least 80% of the total cost.

• I see your units are named after people. What is that about?

  ADU is proud to be a Texas-born company and as such celebrates the people who had a positive impact on the arts, science, and culture of Texas. The pre-designed plans featured on the site are named after someone who made such an impact on the state. Did we miss someone? ADU is constantly adding new designs so if you have a suggestion for someone who should be considered, please feel free to reach out and let us know!

General information, not legal or code advice — Austin’s rules change, and what applies to your lot depends on the property. Ask us or the City for specifics.