Denton is home to the University of North Texas and Texas Woman's University — which means strong, consistent rental demand from students, faculty, and staff. The city has also adopted a relatively clear ADU ordinance that makes garage apartment planning more predictable than in some other DFW cities.
ADU and Garage Apartment Zoning in Denton
Denton's ADU ordinance allows accessory dwelling units up to 800 square feet or 75% of the primary dwelling's floor area (whichever is less). Minimum lot size of 7,000 square feet applies. Setbacks: 5 feet from side and rear property lines. Height: maximum 20 feet. Contact Denton Development Services at (940) 349-8360 for confirmation.
What Does a Garage Apartment Cost in Denton?
Denton has some of the more affordable construction costs in DFW — lower than north DFW suburbs and Southlake. Garage conversions: $38,000–$90,000. Above-garage apartments: $75,000–$175,000. Detached ADUs: $95,000–$250,000. The lower costs and strong rental market make Denton an attractive ADU market.
Full Garage Apartment Cost Guide for DFWPopular Garage Apartment Projects in Denton
Rental-focused ADUs near UNT and TWU campuses. Garage conversions in the historic neighborhoods around downtown Denton. Guest houses for multi-generational living in west Denton neighborhoods.
Why Denton Homeowners Are Building Garage Apartments
Denton's university population — over 50,000 students combined at UNT and TWU — creates consistent rental demand. Garage apartments near campus areas rent for $900–$1,500/month. The combination of lower construction costs and strong rental demand makes Denton one of the better ADU investment markets in DFW.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garage Apartments in Denton
Can I build a garage apartment in Denton, TX?
Yes. Denton allows ADUs up to 800 sq ft or 75% of the primary dwelling. Minimum lot size of 7,000 sq ft applies. We verify your property before design begins.
How much does a garage apartment cost in Denton?
Denton is more affordable than many DFW suburbs. Garage conversions: $38,000–$90,000. Above-garage apartments: $75,000–$175,000. Detached ADUs: $95,000–$250,000.
Do I need a permit for a garage apartment in Denton?
Yes. All ADU construction in Denton requires a building permit. We handle the permit process.
Can I rent out a garage apartment in Denton?
Yes. Denton does not require owner-occupancy for ADU rentals.
What size ADU can I build in Denton?
Denton limits ADUs to the lesser of 800 sq ft or 75% of the primary dwelling's floor area. Minimum lot size: 7,000 sq ft.
How long does it take to build a garage apartment in Denton?
Garage conversions: 3–5 months. Detached ADUs: 5–8 months. Denton permits are generally processed in a reasonable timeframe.