Dallas M-Streets - Converting a detached garage into an ADU

[Kathleen McCabe]

Hello! I live in Dallas TX. My friends has a home in the M-Streets with a detached 2 car garage. How do I find out if she is able to convert that into an ADU / mother in law suite? The home is technically in "duplex zoning". Just trying to confirm if this is an option for her.

Thank you!

Katie

[Bruce Woodruff]

Regardless of whether or not the city will allow it, there are other factors to consider. I dealt with this many times in the San Diego area and it was usually not possible to just 'turn a garage into an ADU'. ADUs are considered 'living space, whereas garages are not. Garages are not built as living space, the main consideration being the slab and it's lack of proper rebar, PSI, and vapor barrier.

I've been asked to have the slab X-Rayed to prove that it was up to current codes. A lot of times it was just easier to tear the garage down and start new.

So while you are at the city asking about zoning, ask about their interpretation of the code as well....