Savannah's ADU regulations are moderately restrictive due to historic preservation requirements. ADUs are allowed in select residential zones, but historic district designation can complicate projects.
Zoning & Size Requirements [1]
| Allowed Zones | Select residential zones (non-historic) |
| Max Size (Detached) | 800 sq ft or 40% of principal dwelling (whichever is less) |
| Max Size (Attached) | 600 sq ft |
| Max Size (JADU) | Not allowed |
| Max Height | 30 feet |
| Max Units | 1 ADU per lot |
Setback Requirements [1]
| Rear Setback | 20 feet |
| Side Setback | 5 feet |
| Front Setback | 25 feet |
| Parking Required | 1 space per unit |
| Owner Occupancy | Often required |
| Min Lot Size | 5,500 sq ft |
Permit Process & Fees
| Approval Process | Building permit + historic review (if applicable) |
| Review Timeline | 75-120 days |
| Permit Fees | $2,800-$4,500 |
| Impact Fees | $1,000-$1,800 |
| Plan Check | 3-4 weeks |
| Pre-Approved Plans | Not available |
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Construction Costs [2][3]
| Average Build Cost | $130,000-$260,000 |
| Cost per Sq Ft | $175-$345 |
| Garage Conversion | $70,000-$160,000 |
| Prefab ADU (Installed) | $100,000-$220,000 |
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Most ADU projects are funded through HELOCs, construction loans, or cash-out refinancing. Compare rates from top lenders.
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Rental Income Potential [4][5]
| Avg Rent (1 Bedroom) | $1,300-$1,800/mo |
| Avg Rent (2 Bedroom) | $1,700-$2,400/mo |
| Short-Term Rental | Permitted with license |
| Est. Annual ROI | 6-8% annual return |
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Recent Law Changes
What's Changed Recently
- Atlanta ADU ordinance expansion (2026): ADUs now allowed in all R-1 through R-5 zones
- Savannah historic district ADU guidelines updated with design flexibility
- Georgia considering statewide ADU preemption modeled on California law
- Atlanta waiving impact fees for ADUs under 750 sq ft through 2027
Tips for Building an ADU in Savannah
- Historic preservation is major consideration; verify zone compatibility early
- Tourism market creates vacation rental income opportunity
- Owner-occupancy often required; limits pure investment strategies
- Historic district restrictions can add significant timeline and cost
Sources & References
All data on this page is sourced from official government records and verified market data. View our full methodology.
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) — City of Savannah Planning Department — Accessed 2026-02-24
- HomeAdvisor — ADU Construction Cost Data Market Data — Accessed 2026-02-24
- Angi — Local ADU Contractor Costs Market Data — Accessed 2026-02-24
- Zillow Rental Manager — Market Rent Data Market Data — Accessed 2026-02-24
- HUD Fair Market Rents Government Data — Accessed 2026-02-24
Frequently Asked Questions
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