Savannah's ADU regulations are moderately restrictive due to historic preservation requirements. ADUs are allowed in select residential zones, but historic district designation can complicate projects.
Zoning & Size Requirements
| Allowed Zones | Select residential zones (non-historic) |
| Max Size (Detached) | 750 sq ft |
| Max Size (Attached) | 600 sq ft |
| Max Size (JADU) | Not allowed |
| Max Height | 30 feet |
| Max Units | 1 ADU per lot |
Setback Requirements
| Rear Setback | 20 feet |
| Side Setback | 5 feet |
| Front Setback | 25 feet |
| Parking Required | 1 space per unit |
| Owner Occupancy | Often required |
| Min Lot Size | 5,500 sq ft |
Permit Process & Fees
| Approval Process | Building permit + historic review (if applicable) |
| Review Timeline | 75-120 days |
| Permit Fees | $2,800-$4,500 |
| Impact Fees | $1,000-$1,800 |
| Plan Check | 3-4 weeks |
| Pre-Approved Plans | Not available |
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Construction Costs
| Average Build Cost | $130,000-$260,000 |
| Cost per Sq Ft | $175-$345 |
| Garage Conversion | $70,000-$160,000 |
| Prefab ADU (Installed) | $100,000-$220,000 (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) | $1,300-$1,800/mo |
| Avg Rent (2 Bedroom) | $1,700-$2,400/mo |
| Short-Term Rental | Permitted with license |
| Est. Annual ROI | 6-8% 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 allowance in non-historic zones
- 2023: Streamlined historic district review process
- 2024: Reduced parking requirements for some ADUs
- 2023: Added design guidelines for ADU projects
Tips for Building an ADU in Savannah
- Historic preservation is major consideration; verify zone compatibility early
- Tourism market creates vacation rental income opportunity
- Owner-occupancy often required; limits pure investment strategies
- Historic district restrictions can add significant timeline and cost
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Savannah?
Yes. ADUs are allowed in Select residential zones (non-historic) in Savannah. The maximum size for a detached ADU is 750 sq ft. No owner-occupancy is required.
How much does an ADU cost in Savannah?
ADU construction in Savannah typically costs $130,000-$260,000. Garage conversions run $70,000-$160,000, and prefab ADUs cost $100,000-$220,000 (installed).
How much can I rent an ADU for in Savannah?
Average ADU rents in Savannah are $1,300-$1,800/mo for a 1-bedroom and $1,700-$2,400/mo for a 2-bedroom unit.
Do I need parking for an ADU in Savannah?
1 space per unit. Check with Savannah planning department for the latest Georgia ADU parking rules, as many states have relaxed requirements in recent years.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Savannah?
The permit review timeline in Savannah is 75-120 days. Fees range from $2,800-$4,500.
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