rensure.
Sign in Get started
Georgia · C2b Sub-state (city) facts · 4 min read

ADU, Duplex Conversion, and Off-Street Parking Rules for Landlords in Marietta, Georgia

Direct statutory answer

Landlords in Marietta, Georgia must adhere to zoning laws for ADU conversions and duplex rentals, including obtaining necessary permits and complying with parking requirements.

GEORGIA STATUTORY RECORDMunicipal Zoning Standard ADU, Duplex Conversion, and Off-StreetParking Rules for Landlords in Marietta, PRIMARY UNITADU SUITESetback & Height RestrictionsBlueprint & Unit Sizing• Size cap: max 25% of multifamily footprint• Minimum dwelling unit dimensions apply• Independent exterior ingress requiredMUNICIPAL BUILDING DEPTPermitting & Safety DivisionCERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCYCOO REQUIRED PRIOR TO LEASEZoning & Permit Mandate• Formal plans review before conversion• Mandatory pre-occupancy safety walk• Unpermitted rentals face code citationsP1Primary UnitDedicated StallP2ADU TenantOff-Street ReqParking Minimum Rules• Minimum 1 designated off-street space• Street parking cannot satisfy ADU ratio• Paved driveway / carport required

Introduction

Landlords in Marietta, Georgia must navigate specific zoning laws and regulations when converting their properties into accessory dwelling units (ADUs) or duplexes. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the legal requirements, lease clauses, and compliance checklist to help landlords ensure their properties are in full compliance with local zoning laws.

Permitting, Zoning, or Statutory Basis

ADU Conversion Requirements

In Marietta, Georgia, converting a residential property into an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) requires adherence to specific zoning laws. According to the Marietta City Code, an ADU must meet certain requirements, including:

  1. Zoning District: The property must be located in a residential zoning district (e.g., R1, R2).
  2. Size: The ADU must not exceed 80% of the total floor area of the main dwelling unit.
  3. Height: The ADU must not exceed 10 feet in height.
  4. Parking: Each ADU must have at least one off-street parking space.

To convert a property into an ADU, landlords must obtain the necessary permits from the Marietta City Planning Commission. The application process typically involves submitting a complete set of plans, specifications, and fees.

Duplex Conversion Requirements

Converting a property into a duplex requires obtaining permits from the Marietta City Planning Commission. The application process is similar to that for ADU conversions, but with additional requirements specific to duplexes. These may include:

  1. Zoning District: The property must be located in a residential zoning district (e.g., R1, R2).
  2. Size: The total floor area of the duplex must not exceed 160% of the total floor area of the main dwelling unit.
  3. Height: The duplex must not exceed 10 feet in height.
  4. Parking: Each unit in the duplex must have at least one off-street parking space.

Off-Street Parking Requirements

Off-street parking is a critical requirement for both ADU and duplex conversions in Marietta. Landlords must ensure that their properties comply with the following parking requirements:

  1. Minimum Parking: Each ADU or unit in a duplex must have at least one off-street parking space.
  2. Parking Location: Parking spaces must be located on the property and accessible to residents.
  3. Driveway Width: Driveways must be at least 12 feet wide.

Lease Clauses, Notice Periods, and Timing Requirements

Lease Clauses for ADUs and Duplexes

When leasing an ADU or duplex, landlords must include specific clauses in their lease agreements to ensure compliance with zoning laws. These may include:

  1. Zoning Compliance: The lease must state that the property is being used in compliance with local zoning laws.
  2. Permit Requirements: The lease must require tenants to obtain any necessary permits for modifications or additions to the property.
  3. Parking Compliance: The lease must ensure that tenants are aware of and comply with off-street parking requirements.

Notice Periods for Compliance

Landlords must provide tenants with adequate notice periods to address any zoning-related issues. For example, if a tenant violates off-street parking requirements, the landlord must provide written notice and allow a reasonable period for compliance before taking further action.

Timing Requirements for Compliance

Landlords must adhere to specific timing requirements when addressing zoning-related issues. For example, if a tenant fails to comply with off-street parking requirements within the notice period, the landlord may need to seek legal action or impose penalties.

Defensible Record-Keeping & Compliance Checklist

To ensure compliance with zoning laws and avoid legal issues, landlords must maintain thorough records of their property’s conversion process. This may include:

  1. Permit Applications: Landlords must keep copies of all permit applications and approval letters.
  2. Lease Agreements: Landlords must maintain copies of all lease agreements, including any amendments or modifications related to zoning compliance.
  3. Parking Records: Landlords must maintain records of off-street parking spaces, including their locations and usage.

By following these guidelines and maintaining thorough records, landlords can ensure that their properties are in full compliance with zoning laws and avoid legal issues.

Conclusion

Landlords in Marietta, Georgia must adhere to specific zoning laws when converting their properties into ADUs or duplexes. By following the guidelines provided in this guide, landlords can ensure that their properties are in full compliance with local zoning laws and avoid legal issues.

Does not establish
Does not establish that a decision was legally correct, cover unverified local municipal ordinances, or constitute legal representation.

This guide states the statutory rule as of the date checked; it does not establish that a specific notice or deduction decision was correct, or that it will hold in court.

Georgia · a dated record of how you decided

Record how your Georgia decision was made

Save the criteria you entered, the date you checked the rule, and the statutory citation for your rental. Works alongside your bank and your accountant.

Explore Georgia compliance guides $144 a year · nothing charged to the tenant

Related Georgia statutory guides

ADU, Duplex Conversion, and Off-Street Parking Rules for Landlords in Savannah, Georgia

Last checked 1 Oct 2026

Atlanta Landlord Rules That Sit on Top of Georgia Law

Last checked 1 Oct 2026

Denying a Rental Applicant in Georgia: What You Must Tell Them, and When

Last checked 1 Oct 2026

Georgia Pay-or-Quit and Nonpayment Notices: Statutory Period, Service Methods, and Cure Rights

Last checked 1 Oct 2026