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Zoning Guide

ADU Rules in Phenix City, Alabama

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ADU Rules in Phenix City, Alabama

Phenix City is located on the Chattahoochee River directly across from Columbus, Georgia. The city permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in residential zones under its Zoning Ordinance. As an Alabama city, no state ADU law overrides local regulations.

Permitted ADU Types

  • Detached ADU: A separate structure on the same residential lot
  • Attached ADU: An addition to the primary dwelling with separate entrance and kitchen
  • Garage/Accessory Building Conversion: Converting existing structures to dwelling units

Size Limits

ADU Type Maximum Size
Detached ADU 800 sq ft or 40% of primary dwelling
Attached ADU 40% of primary dwelling floor area
Conversion ADU 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 primary dwelling

Floodplain Considerations

Parts of Phenix City near the Chattahoochee River are in FEMA flood zones. ADUs in flood-prone areas must comply with floodplain development standards and may require elevated construction.

Owner Occupancy

The property owner must occupy either the primary dwelling or the ADU as their principal residence.

Parking

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

Permit Process

  1. Flood zone check: Verify property status with FEMA MSC
  2. Zoning check: Confirm eligibility with Phenix City Planning
  3. Submit plans: Site plan, floor plans, elevations
  4. Planning review: Zoning and floodplain compliance review
  5. Building permit: Applied through Building Department
  6. Inspections: All phases must pass
  7. Certificate of Occupancy: Required before occupancy

Contact

Phenix City Planning & Zoning Department 601 12th Street, Phenix City, AL 36867 Phone: (334) 448-2700 Website: phenixcityal.us/departments/planning

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

More about Phenix City Zoning

Sources

  1. Phenix City Zoning Ordinance — Accessory Structures·library.municode.com·Accessed 2026-04-07·Direct link

FAQ

Are ADUs allowed in Phenix City, Alabama?
Yes. Phenix City, located on the Chattahoochee River across from Columbus, Georgia, permits accessory dwelling units in residential zones under its Zoning Ordinance.
What is the maximum ADU size in Phenix City?
Accessory dwelling units in Phenix City are generally limited to 800 square feet or 40% of the primary dwelling's floor area, whichever is less.
Does Phenix City require owner occupancy for ADUs?
Yes. The property owner must reside in the primary dwelling or the ADU.