The City of Houston Planning & Development Department is hosting a mini-series of free virtual workshops focused on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). These workshops are funded by a 2021 Community Challenge Grant from AARP.
ADUs, also referred to as garage apartments, mother-in-law cottages and granny flats, are above the garage or detached, free-standing units on single-family lots. ADUs provide another housing choice for Houstonians in neighborhoods where deed restrictions allow and can be great solutions allowing people to age in place or provide housing for caregivers, young couples and empty nesters.
The second virtual workshop, held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 28 goes more in depth into the steps to build an ADU.
Speakers from Rice University, Prairie View A&M, City of Houston Public Works Department, ADU builders and developers will speak about design principles, selecting an architect and how to walk through the permitting process. Speakers and staff will also respond to questions asked at the Benefits and Basics workshop held in August.
ADUs are currently allowed under the current Code of Ordinances up to a maximum size of 900 square feet for a detached unit or a unit above a garage in neighborhoods where deed restrictions permit such units. There are more than 3,600 ADUs in Houston (according to HCAD data) of which the median size is 530 square feet. ADUs offer more housing options while maintaining the existing community character.
