A Guide to Accessory Dwelling Units

OWNERSHIP AND LOCATION

WHO CAN BUILD AN ADU? A homeowner living on single-family property may build an ADU. Proof of owner occupancy is established with a homestead exemption on the property. Alternatively, owner occupancy may be established with a deed and proof of residency, including at least two of the following: • Motor vehicle registration, • Driver’s license, • Texas State identification card, • Voter registration, • Tax documents, or • Utility bill. WHAT IF I HAVE AN ADU AND MOVE OUT? If your single-family property has an existing ADU, and you no longer live on the property, you may only enter into one lease. An ADU and primary building may not be leased to two separate families. WHERE IS AN ADU ALLOWED? ADU’s are allowed in all single-family areas of the city. If your property is zoned for something other than single-family, you can view the zoning ordinance here for regulations specific to your property. In order to check the zoning of your property you can view the city zoning map here.

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City of San Marcos Planning and Development Services Departmen t