SB 673

Overall Vote Recommendation
Yes
Principle Criteria
positive
Free Enterprise
positive
Property Rights
neutral
Personal Responsibility
positive
Limited Government
positive
Individual Liberty
Digest
SB 673 aims to standardize and liberalize the rules governing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) across Texas. The bill defines an ADU as an independent residential housing unit located on lots zoned for single-family homes or duplexes. These units must function as complete and independent living facilities, separate from the primary dwelling.

The bill significantly limits the regulatory authority of political subdivisions (e.g., cities and counties) over ADUs. It prohibits local governments from banning the construction of ADUs before, during, or after the primary dwelling is built. It also bars requirements for owner occupancy of the primary dwelling and prevents restrictions on leasing ADUs. Localities cannot impose certain parking requirements on smaller or older lots or those near public transit lines. Additionally, minimum lot size and setback requirements for ADUs cannot exceed those applied to single-family homes or those that were in place as of September 1, 2025.

SB 673 effectively removes barriers to constructing ADUs by overriding restrictive local zoning and development ordinances.
Author (1)
Bryan Hughes
Co-Author (1)
Royce West
Sponsor (1)
Gary Gates
Fiscal Notes

According to the Legislative Budget Board (LBB), SBl 673 is not expected to have any fiscal impact on the State of Texas. This suggests that the implementation and enforcement of the bill's provisions will not require additional state appropriations or result in decreased state revenues.

At the local level, however, there could be financial implications. Specifically, political subdivisions such as cities and counties may incur costs or experience revenue reductions if they currently collect fees or fines associated with the types of accessory dwelling unit (ADU) regulations the bill seeks to prohibit. This could include, for example, fees tied to permitting processes, fines for zoning violations, or administrative costs associated with enforcement of existing local ADU ordinances that would become unenforceable under the bill.

Vote Recommendation Notes

SB 673 represents a strong advancement for individual liberty and private property rights. It prevents local governments from imposing a wide array of regulatory barriers on the construction and use of accessory dwelling units (ADUs). These include restrictions on owner occupancy, leasing, parking, lot size, setbacks, height, and design, among others. By prohibiting such limitations, the bill empowers property owners to use their land more freely and flexibly without excessive government interference.

The bill explicitly preserves the rights of homeowners associations, historic districts, and deed restrictions, thereby respecting community-specific agreements and localized governance. It also maintains the ability for local governments to enforce certain zoning and safety standards that apply generally to residential properties, ensuring public welfare is not compromised.

From a fiscal standpoint, SB 673 has no projected cost to the state and only minor potential impacts on local governments tied to the loss of certain fees or fines. The broader economic benefit of encouraging affordable housing development, increasing housing supply, and supporting multigenerational and flexible living options outweighs these local administrative trade-offs​.

Based on the content of the bill and its alignment with the core liberty principles—particularly Individual Liberty, Private Property Rights, and Limited Government—Texas Policy Research recommends that lawmakers vote YES on SB 673.

View Bill Text and Status