Zoning Guide

ADU Rules in El Paso, Texas

Last updated: Verified:

El Paso regulates accessory dwelling units directly in Municipal Code §20.10.035.

The previous version of this page used generic estimates for size, height, setbacks, and parking. Those estimates have been replaced with the current code text.

Basic Eligibility

For a detached ADU:

  • the property owner must occupy either the principal dwelling or the ADU as the owner's permanent residence;
  • only one ADU is permitted on a lot with a detached single-family dwelling;
  • an ADU is not permitted on a lot with a duplex or multifamily units;
  • minimum lot area is 5,500 sq ft.

Maximum Floor Area

  • standard maximum: 800 sq ft;
  • on a lot of 8,000 sq ft or more: maximum 1,200 sq ft.

The ADU is limited to one bedroom.

Height

The ADU may not exceed the height of the principal dwelling.

Setbacks

Section 20.10.035 generally requires a detached ADU to be 10 ft from property lines, with specific alley-related provisions and other code conditions.

Do not use the old generic 5 ft side/rear setback previously shown on this page.

Owner Occupancy

The owner must occupy either the principal unit or ADU as a permanent residence.

The code includes a temporary-absence provision allowing an owner absent for one year or less to rent both units during that temporary absence.

Overlays and Fort Bliss

A parcel can also be affected by airport/military compatibility, floodplain, or other overlay requirements. Those constraints are separate from the base ADU standards.

Official Source

El Paso Code §20.10.035 — Accessory Dwelling Unit

El Paso Planning & Inspections

Disclaimer: Verify the current code and parcel overlays before preparing plans.

More about El Paso Zoning

Building Permits — Cost & TimelineSetbacks & Height Limits

Sources

  1. El Paso Code §20.10.035 — Accessory dwelling unit·library.municode.com·Accessed 2026-09-20·Direct link
  2. City of El Paso Planning & Inspections·elpasotexas.gov·Accessed 2026-09-20·Direct link

FAQ

Are ADUs allowed in El Paso, Texas?
Yes. Section 20.10.035 permits one ADU on a lot with a detached single-family dwelling, subject to the section's standards. ADUs are not permitted on lots with duplex or multifamily units.
What lot and size limits apply to an El Paso ADU?
The minimum lot area is 5,500 square feet. The ADU may not exceed 800 square feet, except that a lot of 8,000 square feet or more may have an ADU up to 1,200 square feet.
Does El Paso require owner occupancy?
Yes. The property owner must occupy either the principal unit or the ADU as the owner's permanent residence, subject to the temporary-absence provision in §20.10.035.