ADU Rules in Collierville, Tennessee

Collierville, incorporated as a town rather than a city, is one of Shelby County's most prosperous communities, with a population of approximately 52,000 located about 25 miles east of Memphis. The town is anchored by its picturesque historic Town Square — a Victorian-era commercial district surrounding a park and gazebo — that serves as a community gathering place and a point of civic pride. Collierville's residential neighborhoods are characterized by large single-family lots, tree canopy, and a strong suburban character shaped by decades of HOA governance.

No Statewide ADU Law in Tennessee

Tennessee has not enacted statewide ADU preemption legislation. Collierville's Planning Department administers the local zoning ordinance as part of the Town of Collierville's municipal government, separate from Memphis and Shelby County. All ADU decisions in Collierville are governed by town zoning.

What ADUs Are Permitted

Collierville's zoning ordinance allows accessory dwelling units in residential zones, subject to specific standards. Common ADU types include:

• Detached ADUs — freestanding structures in the rear yard or above detached garages
• Attached ADUs — additions to the primary residence sharing a common wall
• Internal conversions — in-law suites or basement apartments within the existing dwelling

Given the town's strong low-density character, internal conversions and small attached ADUs tend to be the most compatible ADU types with existing neighborhoods and HOA expectations.

Size, Setbacks, and Height

ADU standards in Collierville vary by zoning district. General parameters include:

• Maximum size: ADU floor area is typically capped; confirm current limits in the Code of Ordinances
• Setbacks: Zone setbacks apply; rear-yard detached ADUs must maintain required clearances from property lines
• Height: Detached ADUs are generally limited to match accessory structure height limits in the zone; typically one story in low-density zones

Historic Town Square Overlay

The historic Town Square and surrounding properties may be subject to local historic or character overlay protections. Properties within such an overlay may require design review to ensure that any new structure — including an ADU — is compatible with the scale, materials, and character of the historic area. Contact the Planning Department to confirm whether your property is in an overlay zone.

HOA Restrictions — A Critical Consideration

Collierville is one of the most heavily HOA-governed communities in Shelby County. Before investing in ADU planning, homeowners should:

• Obtain and review the full CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions) for their subdivision
• Confirm whether the CC&Rs prohibit secondary dwellings, guest houses, or rental activities
• Check whether the Architectural Control Committee (ACC) approval is required for any new structure
• Consult with an attorney familiar with Tennessee HOA law if there is ambiguity in the governing documents

HOA restrictions operate independently of zoning and can effectively prevent ADU construction even when the zoning code permits it.

Permit Process

1. Verify zoning — Contact Collierville Planning at (901) 457-2360 or use the town's online zoning map
2. Review HOA CC&Rs — Confirm no deed restrictions prohibit ADU construction
3. Check historic overlay status — Determine if design review applies to your property
4. Prepare construction documents — Engage a licensed architect or designer
5. Submit building permit — Apply through Collierville's Building and Codes Department
6. Inspections and CO — Pass required inspections before occupying the ADU

Contact Information

Town of Collierville Planning Department 500 Poplar View Parkway, Collierville, TN 38017 Phone: (901) 457-2360 Website: colliervilletn.gov/290/Planning-Zoning

Collierville Building and Codes Department 500 Poplar View Parkway, Collierville, TN 38017 Phone: (901) 457-2340

Disclaimer: This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. Collierville's zoning code and private HOA restrictions are subject to change. Always verify current ADU regulations with the Collierville Planning Department and review HOA documents before making any development decisions.