Do Charlotte's ADU rules apply in Matthews?
No. Matthews is a separate town with its own development ordinance, so Charlotte's UDO limits on ADU size, height and driveways do not carry over. As of October 2026, we could not verify a published summary of Matthews' current ADU standards, so for every Matthews project we confirm the rules with town planning staff in writing.
Does the 2026 state ADU law apply in Matthews?
Probably not. The Regulatory Reform Act of 2026 sets ADU requirements for cities with at least 50,000 residents outside the coastal area. Matthews' population was below that in the 2020 Census. The town can still allow ADUs under its own code; the state law just does not require it to change its rules.
What do we ask the town?
- Whether your zoning district allows an accessory dwelling and through what approval.
- The size limit, and whether it is a fixed number or a share of the main house.
- Height and setback rules for a detached unit or a unit over a garage.
- Parking, driveway and owner-occupancy requirements, if any.
Who issues the building permit?
For towns in Mecklenburg County, building permits and inspections are generally handled by Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement, with the town signing off on zoning. We coordinate both.
What usually matters on a Matthews lot?
It depends on the neighborhood. Subdivisions with HOA covenants can be stricter than zoning, and the 2026 state law does not override private covenants even where it applies. Lot depth and the position of the house decide whether a cottage fits behind it.
Related
As of October 2026. Sources: Carolina Journal and WSPA coverage of Senate Bill 445 (Regulatory Reform Act of 2026); Town of Mint Hill building permits page on Mecklenburg County permitting. Matthews ADU standards confirmed with the town for each project.
What can you add in Matthews?
Send your Matthews address and what you would like to build. We check the town's zoning for that parcel and tell you what looks possible, and what does not.