Hi everyone! I’m planning to build a 20 ft by 20 ft accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on my property in Houston. I have a recent survey of my lot and I’m trying to understand the city’s permitting process and setback requirements.

From what I’ve read:

• Houston requires a 5-ft rear setback, which I can meet.
• But the side setback requirement is also 5 ft, and my lot only has about 2 ft available

My questions are:

1. Has anyone built a small ADU like mine (20×20) in Houston and had to deal with side setback issues?
2. Are there any exceptions, variances, or workarounds for a side setback less than 5 ft?
3. Can a structure with a 2-ft side setback still be approved if it meets other requirements (firewalls, overhang rules, construction agreements)?
4. Any advice on working with Houston’s Permitting Center or Public Works to navigate this?
5. please give other challenges and solutions if you have any!

Thanks for any tips or shared experiences — I want to make sure I handle this correctly before moving forward!

Hi everyone! I’m planning to build a 20 ft by 20 ft accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on my property in Houston. I have a recent survey of my lot and I’m trying to understand the city’s permitting process and setback requirements.

From what I’ve read:

• Houston requires a 5-ft rear setback, which I can meet.
• But the side setback requirement is also 5 ft, and my lot only has about 2 ft available

My questions are:

1. Has anyone built a small ADU like mine (20×20) in Houston and had to deal with side setback issues?
2. Are there any exceptions, variances, or workarounds for a side setback less than 5 ft?
3. Can a structure with a 2-ft side setback still be approved if it meets other requirements (firewalls, overhang rules, construction agreements)?
4. Any advice on working with Houston’s Permitting Center or Public Works to navigate this?
5. please give other challenges and solutions if you have any!

Thanks for any tips or shared experiences — I want to make sure I handle this correctly before moving forward!