ADU Rules in Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is Tennessee's largest city, home to approximately 633,000 residents in Shelby County along the eastern bank of the Mississippi River. Known internationally for blues music, Beale Street, and as the home of FedEx's global hub at Memphis International Airport, the city also faces significant challenges including poverty, population decline, and a large aging housing stock — all factors that make accessory dwelling units (ADUs) potentially valuable tools for neighborhood reinvestment.

No Statewide ADU Law in Tennessee

Tennessee has not passed statewide ADU legislation. Each municipality sets its own rules. In Memphis, the City's Division of Planning and Development administers the zoning ordinance, and local zoning regulations are the controlling authority for all ADU-related decisions.

What ADUs Are Permitted

Memphis's zoning ordinance allows accessory dwelling units in single-family residential zones, subject to specific standards. Permitted ADU types typically include:

• Detached ADUs — separate structures on the same lot as the primary dwelling
• Attached ADUs — additions to the main house sharing a common wall
• Garage and basement conversions — internal conversions of existing accessory structures or basement space

The zoning district designation on your specific parcel governs whether an ADU is a permitted use or requires a special use permit (SUP). Contact the Division of Planning and Development to confirm your district.

Size, Setbacks, and Height

Specific ADU standards in Memphis vary by zoning district. General standards that have historically applied include:

• Maximum size: ADU floor area is typically limited relative to the primary structure's square footage; consult the current ordinance for precise caps
• Setbacks: Detached ADUs must observe rear and side setbacks per the base zone; reduced setbacks from rear lot lines have been considered as part of ongoing zoning reform discussions
• Height: Detached ADUs are generally limited to one or two stories; height caps apply at the zone level

Mississippi River Flood Zone Considerations

Memphis's proximity to the Mississippi River creates extensive FEMA flood zone coverage. Properties near the river, Wolf River, Nonconnah Creek, and other waterways in Shelby County may sit within AE (100-year flood) or AO (shallow flood) zones. ADU construction in these areas requires:

• Elevation to or above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE)
• A floodplain development permit from the City of Memphis Engineering Division
• Flood-proofing documentation for non-residential construction in flood zones

Consult FEMA's Flood Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov) and contact the Memphis floodplain administrator before designing an ADU on a flood-zone parcel.

Historic Districts

Memphis has significant historic resources including South Main Arts District, Victorian Village, and numerous residential historic districts. Properties within local or National Register historic districts may require additional review by the Memphis Landmarks Commission before an ADU can be constructed, particularly where exterior changes to contributing structures are proposed.

Permit Process

1. Confirm zoning district — Check the Memphis zoning map or call (901) 636-6619
2. Determine ADU permissibility — Verify whether an ADU is permitted by right or requires a special use permit
3. Prepare construction documents — Hire a licensed architect or designer for permit-ready plans
4. Submit building permit — Apply through the Memphis Office of Construction Code Enforcement
5. Inspections and Certificate of Occupancy — Pass required inspections before occupying the ADU

Contact Information

City of Memphis Division of Planning and Development 125 N. Main Street, Suite 477, Memphis, TN 38103 Phone: (901) 636-6619 Website: memphistn.gov/government/planning-development/

Memphis Office of Construction Code Enforcement 125 N. Main Street, Memphis, TN 38103 Phone: (901) 636-6300

Disclaimer: This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. Memphis's zoning code is subject to amendment. Always verify current ADU regulations with the City of Memphis Division of Planning and Development or review the official Code of Ordinances before making any development decisions.