ADU rules in Florida
Representative cities: Miami, Orlando, Tampa.
ADU permit rule
Permit requiredRestrictedcity authority
Fee basis
Permit and plan-review fees set by the city. Verify with the local building department.
Typical timeline
Varies by city; 2–8 weeks.
Setback
Per local zoning.
Area threshold
Allowed where local zoning permits (e.g., Miami 21, Orlando, Tampa).
Exempt if
None — where allowed, ADUs require a permit.
Go / no-go
restricted
Florida has no statewide by-right ADU mandate; ADUs are allowed only where the local ordinance permits, with size/setback set by that ordinance.
ADU official sources: City of Orlando — Permits & Inspections · City of Miami — Building & Permitting (iBuild)
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to build an ADU in Florida?
Per Florida rules, an ADU is "yes" for a permit and the authority is "city". Florida has no statewide by-right ADU mandate; ADUs are allowed only where the local ordinance permits, with size/setback set by that ordinance. Always confirm with the issuing building department.
How big can an ADU be in Florida?
Area threshold: Allowed where local zoning permits (e.g., Miami 21, Orlando, Tampa).
What are the ADU setbacks in Florida?
Setback: Per local zoning.
How much does an ADU permit cost in Florida?
Fee basis: Permit and plan-review fees set by the city. Verify with the local building department.
State-wide sources: Florida Building Commission — 8th Ed. (2023) Florida Building Code · City of Miami — Building & Permitting (iBuild)
Plan the ADU numbers for Florida
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Rental ROI and payback
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Financing comparison
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Does your ADU need a permit?
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