SF-3 Development Question: Guest House vs. Garage Apartment (Austin, Spring: zoning, permit)

[Biscuits]

From what I can decipher from the development code, a detached garage apartment of up to 850 square feet is permitted under SF-3 zoning.

Finding information on guest house regulations has been more difficult to obtain.

Assuming all impervious cover, setback, and FAR regulations are met, is there anything else limiting the size of guest house that can be built?

[Derek ATX]

Originally Posted by Biscuits

From what I can decipher from the development code, a detached garage apartment of up to 850 square feet is permitted under SF-3 zoning.

Finding information on guest house regulations has been more difficult to obtain.

Assuming all impervious cover, setback, and FAR regulations are met, is there anything else limiting the size of guest house that can be built?

I would suggest taking your questions to the City of Austin Development Assistance Dept. at 505 Barton Springs (behind Threadgills). They can usually get you in and out in less than 30 minutes on a question like that. You have to go before noon on weekdays though. I was there this week for a developer and they are very helpful thorough.

[Biscuits]

Originally Posted by Derek ATX

I would suggest taking your questions to the City of Austin Development Assistance Dept. at 505 Barton Springs (behind Threadgills). They can usually get you in and out in less than 30 minutes on a question like that. You have to go before noon on weekdays though. I was there this week for a developer and they are very helpful thorough.

Thank you, Derek. That is very good advice but I was feeling especially lazy and anxious regarding the answer and thought I may get lucky with someone on the Forum.

[Derek ATX]

I try not to answer zoning questions precisely because it is an act of deciphering the rules. I can't tell you how many times I've thought it meant one thing when it meant something completly different so I always go ask and get it in writing. Usually in and out in 15 minutes and never been there longer than 45.