ADU Regulations in Arlington, Texas
Updated September 29, 2026
Midway between Dallas and Fort Worth in Tarrant County, Arlington evaluates ADU applications under its local zoning ordinance. Property owners should verify district-specific rules since Texas lacks statewide ADU legislation.
Below is a summary of the key zoning rules applicable to Accessory Dwelling Units in Arlington as of 2026. Regulations are governed by local zoning ordinances, as Texas has no statewide ADU mandate.
| Regulation | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Maximum Size | 1,000 sq ft |
| Property Setbacks | 5 ft rear, 5 ft side |
| Extra Parking Required | Required (1 space) |
| Owner Occupancy | Not required |
Additional Local Requirements for Arlington
- ADU allowed in residential zones per local ordinance
- Minimum 200 sq ft
- Building permit required
- ⚠️ TX has NO statewide ADU law — city code governs
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Can I build an ADU in Arlington?
This Texas city permits ADUs under local ordinance. Verify your specific zoning district with the planning department before applying.
What is the maximum ADU size allowed in Arlington?
ADUs in Arlington can be up to 1,000 square feet, subject to the property's zoning and lot coverage limits. Always confirm the exact allowed size with the Arlington planning department before designing your project.
What are the setback requirements for an ADU in Arlington?
ADUs in Arlington generally require setbacks of 5 ft rear, 5 ft side. Texas has no statewide ADU mandate — the exact setback figures come from Arlington's own zoning code, so confirm them with the city planning department before you design.
Disclaimer: This guide summarises publicly available city zoning rules and is for general information only — it is not legal or architectural advice. Codes change; always confirm current requirements with the Arlington planning department before you design or build.