ADU Permit Fees & Costs in Austin, Texas
Everything you need to apply for a adu permit in Austin, Texas — documents, fees, steps, and a downloadable submission packet.
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Yes
- Submission method
- Online
- Typical fee range
- $5,250 – $19,800
- Review time
- Varies by jurisdiction
- Inspections
- 6 inspections required
Limited Data Available
Some information on this page has not been fully verified. We're working to improve data quality. Always verify with Austin directly.
Estimated Total Fees
$5,250 – $19,800
Range based on typical residential solar PV system. Actual fees depend on project valuation and system size.
| Fee Component | Range | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| ADU Permit Fee[1][2] Fees based on construction valuation. Austin Code Section 25-1-672 fee structure applies. Includes plan review and permit issuance fees. | $3,500 – $12,000 | ✓ |
| Plan Review Fee[3][4] Plan review fee is typically 50-65% of the permit fee. | $1,750 – $7,800 | ✓ |
| Estimated Total | $5,250 – $19,800 |
Fees shown as ranges. Always verify the exact amount with Austin before submission. Additional fees may apply for expedited review or resubmittals.
Generate your permit packet
Get a personalized ADU permit packet for Austin, Texas — tailored to your project details.
- Required forms: Building Permit Application, and more
- Pre-filled templates: Permit Cover Sheet
- Fee breakdown: $1,750–$12,000 estimated total
- Step-by-step Austin Development Services Department portal submission guide
- Inspection prep checklist (6 items)
- Personalized for your specific project details
Free to preview · Pro to download
Required Documents
Austin requires the following documents for this permit application.
Building Permit Application
Completed Form B1 (Application for Building Permit)
Architectural Plans
Complete architectural drawings signed by a licensed architect, including floor plans, elevations, sections
Site Plan
Site plan showing lot boundaries, setbacks, building footprint, parking areas, and utilities
Structural Calculations
Structural calculations and engineering report prepared by a licensed structural engineer
Utility Connection Plans
Plans showing water, sewer, electric, and gas connections. Separate meter information if applicable
Property Deed
Copy of property deed showing current ownership
Permit Process
Follow these steps to submit your permit application through Austin Development Services Department.
- 1
Pre-Application Consultation
Meet with City staff to discuss ADU proposal and compliance with Code Section 25-2-792
You'll need: Property Deed
- 2
Submit Plans and Application
Submit complete building permit application with architectural and engineering documents
You'll need: Building Permit Application, Architectural Plans, Site Plan, Structural Calculations, Utility Connection Plans
- 3
Plan Review
City planning and building review staff examine plans for compliance with zoning and building codes
- 4
Address Corrections and Revisions
Submit revised plans if reviewer identifies code compliance issues
- 5
Pay Permit Fees
Pay calculated permit fees based on valuation
- 6
Construction Inspections
Schedule and pass required building inspections during construction
- 7
Certificate of Occupancy
Receive Certificate of Occupancy after final inspection
Authority Sources
Data on this page is sourced from official records published by the permitting authority. Always verify requirements directly before submitting.
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a adu permit in Austin?
- Yes. Austin requires a adu permit for this type of project. Submitting without a permit may result in fines, required removal, or complications when selling your property.
- How long does adu permit approval take in Austin?
- Processing times in Austin vary depending on project complexity and current review volume. The process involves 7 steps. Contact Austin Development Services for current timelines.
- What documents are required for a adu permit in Austin?
- Austin requires 6 documents including Building Permit Application, Architectural Plans, Site Plan, Structural Calculations, and others. See the full list above for details.
- What happens if I build without a adu permit in Austin?
- Building without a permit in Austin can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of work, difficulty selling your property, and insurance complications. It is strongly recommended to obtain proper permits before starting work.
- Can PermitMagic help prepare my adu permit submission in Austin?
- Yes. PermitMagic generates a submission-ready packet tailored to Austin's requirements, including a document checklist, workflow steps, and authority references. Start a permit plan to get your personalized packet.
- How much does a adu permit cost in Austin?
- ADU permit fees in Austin typically range from $5,250 to $19,800, depending on project scope. Fees may include building permit, plan review, and technology surcharges. Verify current fees with Austin.
Related Permits
Other permits in Austin
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Answer a few project questions and get a adu permit packet for Austin, Texas — with every document, form, and fee organized for submission.
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