In San Antonio, ADU permits are issued by the Development Services Department and filed through the BuildSA portal as a residential building permit application. Before filing, the owner records an owner-occupancy affidavit with Bexar County. After plan review, permit fees and inspections, the city issues a certificate of occupancy, and only then can someone move in.
What does the city ask for?
- A recorded owner-occupancy affidavit and proof of residency.
- A site plan showing the ADU, setbacks and the main house.
- A foundation plan.
- An IECC energy report.
- Manual J load calculations and a Manual S equipment list for HVAC.
How long is review?
The city's ADU page says initial redline comments can take up to three business days after the plan review fee is paid. Total time depends on corrections and on how quickly each round is answered. Permit fees are paid separately after approval.
What do we check before drawing?
- The zoning district, since ADUs are allowed in R-1 through R-6, RM-4, RM-5 and RM-6, and some multifamily districts.
- Floodplain and drainage on the lot.
- Where CPS Energy and SAWS service can connect, and whether to meter separately.
- Deed restrictions and HOA architectural review.
- Whether the project could qualify for a fee waiver.
What about the suburbs?
New Braunfels, Schertz, Boerne and Alamo Heights each run their own building permits and zoning. Alamo Heights is a separate city even though San Antonio surrounds it.
Who is licensed for what?
Texas has no statewide license for general contractors. The state does license electricians, plumbers and HVAC contractors, and licensed contractors in each of those fields perform that work for us. We are insured and share proof of coverage on request.