Can I Build This?
Can I Build This?
Shreveport's Unified Development Code (UDC) explicitly allows Accessory Dwelling Units in residential zones. Here's what you need to know.
| Status | Allowed by-right in most residential zones; special use permit in at least one district |
| Max Size | 1,800 sq ft OR 60% of principal dwelling's gross floor area, whichever is less |
| Max Height | 18 feet (general accessory structure limit) |
| Placement | Detached ADUs in rear yard only; 5 ft from any lot line; at least 10 ft from principal building |
| Count | One ADU per lot |
| Parking | No additional parking required for the ADU |
| Design | Must be visually subordinate to principal dwelling; materials similar to main house |
| Types Allowed | Attached, detached, or within existing accessory structure (garage/carriage house) |
| Rental | Rental Dwelling Unit Certificate of Registration required; short-term rentals separately regulated |
Structures under 120 sq ft with no plumbing or electrical may not require a building permit in Shreveport/Bossier. However, running a dedicated electrical circuit still typically requires an electrical permit. Once you add plumbing, electrical, or exceed the size threshold, full building permits apply.
Zoning research, permit applications, site plans, inspections, code compliance. We navigate the entire Shreveport permitting process for you. You don't need to learn the UDC. That's our job.
Louisiana does not have statewide ADU preemption legislation, so each city sets its own rules. Shreveport's code is relatively permissive compared to other Louisiana cities. If you're outside Shreveport city limits, we'll research your specific municipality's rules during your consultation.