Garland addresses accessory dwelling units in its development code (Section 2.58 of the Garland Development Code). Published summaries, as of October 2026, describe a size cap tied to the main house, with an allowance of up to 600 sq ft, and a rule that the unit cannot be rented or sold apart from the main property. We confirm the current text with Garland Planning for your lot.
What standards are reported for Garland ADUs?
- Floor area capped at a percentage of the main house (reported as 30 percent), with an allowance of up to 600 sq ft.
- Minimum interior side and rear setbacks (reported as 3 feet).
- Height limits that rise with the size of the structure.
- A building permit for accessory structures over 20 sq ft.
Can I rent a Garland ADU?
Not separately, according to the published summaries. That makes Garland a better fit for a parent, an adult child or a guest suite than for an income unit. Ask us to check before you plan around rent.
Does SB 15 affect Garland?
Garland is among the large Texas cities covered by SB 15, the 2025 small-lot law. It applies to new single-family developments, not to adding an ADU behind an existing house.