Nashville’s DADU guide distinguishes living area, footprint, eave height, ridge height, and setback. A parcel’s lot area and DADU footprint determine which rows apply.
Local standards
The selected local standards are summarized in the Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU) — Standards. For lots under 10,000 square feet, living area is limited to 700 square feet; for lots of at least 10,000 square feet, it is 850 square feet. In either case the DADU cannot be larger than the principal dwelling. Its footprint also cannot exceed the principal dwelling’s footprint.
Confirm the applicable rule
Eaves may not exceed the principal dwelling’s eave and are capped at 10 feet for one story or 17 feet for two stories. Ridge height must be below the principal ridge and no more than 27 feet above average finished grade. For footprints up to 850 square feet, side/rear distances may be half the district setback but at least three feet; larger footprints use full district setbacks. Zoning measurements do not by themselves establish fire separation, building-code compliance, utility capacity, or permit approval. For shared measurement methods, see the setback and separation guide and floor-area guide.
