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Zoning Guide

ADU Rules in Auburn, Alabama

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ADU Rules in Auburn, Alabama

Auburn is home to Auburn University and experiences high housing demand. The city permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in residential zones under its Zoning Ordinance. Auburn manages rental density near the university campus through specific zoning and occupancy regulations.

Permitted ADU Types

  • Detached ADU: A separate structure on the lot behind or beside the main house
  • Attached ADU: A connected addition with its own entrance
  • Garage Apartment: A dwelling unit above or within a garage structure

Size Limits

ADU Type Maximum Size
Detached ADU 800 sq ft or 40% of primary dwelling
Attached ADU 40% of primary dwelling floor area
Garage Apartment Existing footprint

Setbacks

  • Front: Must meet base zone standard
  • Side: 5 feet minimum
  • Rear: 10 feet minimum
  • Separation from primary: 10 feet minimum

Height

  • Detached ADU: Maximum 15 feet
  • Cannot exceed height of the primary dwelling

Owner Occupancy

Auburn requires the property owner to occupy either the primary dwelling or the ADU. Absentee-owned properties with ADUs are not permitted under most residential zoning designations.

Near-Campus Overlay

Properties in the Near-Campus Overlay district (around Auburn University) may be subject to additional regulations, including limitations on the number of unrelated occupants (typically 4 per dwelling unit).

Rental Registration

All rental units in Auburn must be registered and may be subject to periodic inspection. Contact Auburn's Code Enforcement Division for current requirements.

Parking

One additional off-street parking space is required per ADU.

Permit Process

  1. Zoning check: Verify eligibility and overlay restrictions
  2. Submit plans: Site plan, floor plans, elevations
  3. Planning review: Staff review for compliance
  4. Building permit: Issued by Building Department
  5. Inspections: All required inspections must pass
  6. Certificate of Occupancy: Issued upon successful final inspection

Contact

Auburn Planning Department 144 Tichenor Ave, Suite 7, Auburn, AL 36830 Phone: (334) 501-3060 Website: auburnalabama.org/planning

Disclaimer: Verify current requirements with the Auburn Planning Department before starting any project.

More about Auburn Zoning

Sources

  1. Auburn Zoning Ordinance — Accessory Dwellings·library.municode.com·Accessed 2026-04-07·Direct link
  2. City of Auburn Planning Department·auburnalabama.org·Accessed 2026-04-07·Direct link

FAQ

Are ADUs legal in Auburn, Alabama?
Yes. Auburn allows accessory dwelling units in residential zoning districts. As a college town, Auburn has specific rental and occupancy regulations in neighborhoods near Auburn University.
What is the maximum ADU size in Auburn?
Accessory dwelling units in Auburn are generally limited to 800 square feet or 40% of the primary dwelling's floor area, whichever is less.
Can I rent my ADU in Auburn?
Rentals are permitted provided the property owner occupies the primary dwelling and registers the rental unit with the city's rental inspection program.