Do I need a permit for an ADU or garage conversion in Fort Worth, TX?

Short answer: Yes, a permit is required for an ADU or garage conversion in Fort Worth, TX.

Last verified: 2026-10-19 · Confidence: high · Status: Verified from official source

Not legal advice. Always confirm with your local building department. Rules change, and your parcel's zoning, HOA, historic district, floodplain or utility work can change the answer. We show the official source and the date we last checked it so you can verify for yourself.

Permit required Confidence: high

Yes. Enclosing a garage for another use needs a building permit; a zoning variance may be needed for lost parking.

What changes the answer

Zoning Board variance may be needed

Cost

Fee not extracted; see Fort Worth Development Services. Unverified, confirm locally

Fee source: https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/departments/development-services/permits/residential-information

Where to apply

City of Fort Worth Development Services (online permit application)

Permitting authority: City of Fort Worth Development Services Department. Applies inside Fort Worth city limits. Applicants must be registered contractors or qualify for a homestead permit. See also: how to apply for a building permit.

Official sources

“Enclosing a garage for use other than as a garage requires a building permit. A variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment may be required due to the removal of required parking spaces.”

Source: https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/departments/development-services/permits/residential-information

Verified: 2026-10-19 · Status: verified · Confidence: high

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