San Antonio has limited ADU allowances, primarily in certain zoning districts. The city is less progressive on ADU regulations than Austin or Dallas, requiring careful site analysis to verify compatibility with local zoning.
Zoning & Size Requirements
| Allowed Zones | Selected residential zones only |
| Max Size (Detached) | 800 sq ft |
| Max Size (Attached) | Not typically allowed |
| Max Size (JADU) | Not allowed |
| Max Height | 30 feet |
| Max Units | 1 ADU per lot |
Setback Requirements
| Rear Setback | 20 feet |
| Side Setback | 5 feet |
| Front Setback | 25 feet |
| Parking Required | 2 spaces |
| Owner Occupancy | Not required |
| Min Lot Size | 7,500 sq ft |
Permit Process & Fees
| Approval Process | Conditional use permit required |
| Review Timeline | 90-120 days |
| Permit Fees | $4,000-$6,500 |
| Impact Fees | $1,200-$2,200 |
| Plan Check | 4-6 weeks |
| Pre-Approved Plans | Not available |
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Construction Costs
| Average Build Cost | $110,000-$220,000 |
| Cost per Sq Ft | $140-$275 |
| Garage Conversion | $50,000-$130,000 |
| Prefab ADU (Installed) | $75,000-$170,000 (installed) |
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| Avg Rent (1 Bedroom) | $1,050-$1,550/mo |
| Avg Rent (2 Bedroom) | $1,300-$1,950/mo |
| Short-Term Rental | Not permitted |
| Est. Annual ROI | 5-7% annual return |
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Prefab ADUs can save 20-40% vs. traditional construction and cut build time in half. Compare top prefab manufacturers.
Compare Prefab ADUs →Recent Law Changes
What's Changed Recently
- 2024: Expanded ADU allowances in select neighborhood zones
- 2023: Reduced conditional use permit timeline from 120 to 90 days
- 2024: Added ADU provisions in infill zones near downtown
- 2022: Increased max size from 700 to 800 sq ft (limited zones)
Tips for Building an ADU in San Antonio
- San Antonio requires conditional use permits; factor 90+ day timeline into plans
- Verify your specific zoning district; many zones don't allow ADUs
- Neighborhood compatibility considerations are heavily weighted in approval
- Strong rental market in central areas; location matters significantly for ROI
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in San Antonio?
Yes. ADUs are allowed in Selected residential zones only in San Antonio. The maximum size for a detached ADU is 800 sq ft. No owner-occupancy is required.
How much does an ADU cost in San Antonio?
ADU construction in San Antonio typically costs $110,000-$220,000. Garage conversions run $50,000-$130,000, and prefab ADUs cost $75,000-$170,000 (installed).
How much can I rent an ADU for in San Antonio?
Average ADU rents in San Antonio are $1,050-$1,550/mo for a 1-bedroom and $1,300-$1,950/mo for a 2-bedroom unit.
Do I need parking for an ADU in San Antonio?
2 spaces. Check with San Antonio planning department for the latest Texas ADU parking rules, as many states have relaxed requirements in recent years.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in San Antonio?
The permit review timeline in San Antonio is 90-120 days. Fees range from $4,000-$6,500.
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