City of Dallas Accessory Structure and Shed Regulations
In the City of Dallas, accessory structures like sheds are generally limited to a height no greater than the primary building and an aggregate floor area of 50 percent of the main structure. While a building permit is typically required for construction, the Dallas Development Code provides a specific exemption from design compatibility standards—including roof pitch and material matching—for any accessory structure measuring 200 square feet or less in floor area [Section 51A-4.209].
General Requirements for Accessory Structures
In the City of Dallas, an accessory structure is defined as a structure located on the same lot as the main building that is subordinate in floor area, location, and purpose [Section 51A-2.102]. The Dallas Development Code mandates that these structures remain incidental to the primary use of the property.
According to the regulations for residential uses in the City of Dallas, the following standards apply to all accessory structures:
- Rental Prohibition: No person may rent an accessory structure for any form of consideration [Section 51A-4.209].
- Advertising: Property owners are prohibited from using advertisements, listings, or signs on the premises to promote the rental of an accessory structure [Section 51A-4.209].
- Location: An accessory structure must be located on the same lot as the main building [Section 51A-4.217].
Bulk and Area Standards
The City of Dallas establishes strict limits on the size and height of sheds and other outbuildings to ensure they do not overwhelm the primary residence or neighboring properties.
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Maximum Height | May not exceed the height of the main building |
| Individual Floor Area (Parking) | May not exceed 25% of the floor area of the main building |
| Total Aggregate Floor Area | Total of all accessory structures may not exceed 50% of the main building floor area |
| Design Compatibility Limit | Structures over 200 sq. ft. must match the main building's roof pitch and materials |
Permit and Site Plan Thresholds
The Dallas Building Official has the authority to issue permits and certificates of occupancy in accordance with the Dallas Development Code [Section 51A-3.105].
The 200 Square Foot Rule
For many residents of the City of Dallas, the most significant threshold is 200 square feet. Accessory structures at or below this size are exempt from the "compatibility" provisions of the code, which otherwise require the shed to have a similar roof pitch and be constructed of materials of similar quality to the primary house [Section 51A-4.209].
Site Plan Waivers
In specific "Form Districts" within the City of Dallas, the building official may authorize minor modifications and waive the requirement for a formal site plan for minor construction, which specifically includes accessory structures [Section 51A-13.703].
Setback and Yard Requirements
The City of Dallas provides flexibility for the placement of smaller accessory structures within residential districts, particularly when located at the rear of a property.
| Structure Placement | Setback Requirement |
|---|---|
| Side Yard (Located in the rear 30% of the lot) | 0 feet (if structure height is ≤ 15 feet) |
| Rear Yard (No adjacent alley) | 0 feet (if structure height is ≤ 15 feet) |
| Rear Yard (Adjacent to an alley) | 3 feet (if structure height is ≤ 15 feet) |
| General Side Yard (Not in rear 30% of lot) | Must follow standard district setbacks |
[Section 51A-4.402; Section 51A-4.403].
Sections Cited
- Sec. 51A-2.102. DEFINITIONS.
- Sec. 51A-3.105. BUILDING OFFICIAL.
- Sec. 51A-4.209. RESIDENTIAL USES.
- Sec. 51A-4.217. ACCESSORY USES.
- Sec. 51A-4.402. MINIMUM SIDE YARD.
- Sec. 51A-4.403. MINIMUM REAR YARD.
- Sec. 51A-13.703. SITE PLAN REVIEW.