Raleigh allows ADUs in residential zones with moderate regulations. The city's position as North Carolina's capital and tech hub has created steady housing demand and supportive ADU policies.
Zoning & Size Requirements
| Allowed Zones | Single-family residential |
| Max Size (Detached) | 800 sq ft |
| Max Size (Attached) | 700 sq ft |
| Max Size (JADU) | Not allowed |
| Max Height | 35 feet |
| Max Units | 1 ADU per lot |
Setback Requirements
| Rear Setback | 15 feet |
| Side Setback | 5 feet |
| Front Setback | 20 feet |
| Parking Required | 1 space per unit |
| Owner Occupancy | Not required |
| Min Lot Size | 5,000 sq ft |
Permit Process & Fees
| Approval Process | Building permit |
| Review Timeline | 50-70 days |
| Permit Fees | $2,100-$3,600 |
| Impact Fees | $700-$1,300 |
| Plan Check | 2-3 weeks |
| Pre-Approved Plans | Limited availability |
Get Free ADU Quotes in Raleigh
Connect with pre-vetted ADU contractors in your area. Free, no obligation.
🔒 Your info is secure. We connect you with up to 3 vetted local contractors. No spam, no obligation.
Construction Costs
| Average Build Cost | $110,000-$220,000 |
| Cost per Sq Ft | $135-$275 |
| Garage Conversion | $55,000-$130,000 |
| Prefab ADU (Installed) | $80,000-$180,000 (installed) |
Finance Your ADU Project
Most ADU projects are funded through HELOCs, construction loans, or cash-out refinancing. Compare rates from top lenders in minutes.
Compare ADU Financing Options →Rental Income Potential
| Avg Rent (1 Bedroom) | $1,200-$1,650/mo |
| Avg Rent (2 Bedroom) | $1,550-$2,150/mo |
| Short-Term Rental | Not typically permitted |
| Est. Annual ROI | 7-10% annual return |
Explore Prefab ADU Options
Prefab ADUs can save 20-40% vs. traditional construction and cut build time in half. Compare top prefab manufacturers.
Compare Prefab ADUs →Recent Law Changes
What's Changed Recently
- 2024: Expanded ADU provisions in residential zones
- 2023: Streamlined permit timeline
- 2024: Increased max detached ADU size from 700 to 800 sq ft
- 2023: Reduced impact fees
Tips for Building an ADU in Raleigh
- Raleigh's Research Triangle location provides strong economic fundamentals
- Growing population supports appreciation and rental demand
- Affordable property market vs. Charlotte and Durham
- Quality tenant base due to tech industry and universities
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Raleigh?
Yes. ADUs are allowed in Single-family residential in Raleigh. The maximum size for a detached ADU is 800 sq ft. No owner-occupancy is required.
How much does an ADU cost in Raleigh?
ADU construction in Raleigh typically costs $110,000-$220,000. Garage conversions run $55,000-$130,000, and prefab ADUs cost $80,000-$180,000 (installed).
How much can I rent an ADU for in Raleigh?
Average ADU rents in Raleigh are $1,200-$1,650/mo for a 1-bedroom and $1,550-$2,150/mo for a 2-bedroom unit.
Do I need parking for an ADU in Raleigh?
1 space per unit. Check with Raleigh planning department for the latest North Carolina ADU parking rules, as many states have relaxed requirements in recent years.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Raleigh?
The permit review timeline in Raleigh is 50-70 days. Fees range from $2,100-$3,600.
Ready to Build in Raleigh?
Get free, no-obligation quotes from top-rated ADU contractors in Raleigh.
Get Free Quotes →