All ADUs are Foundation-Built · Fully Permitted · Florida Building Code Compliant

ADU Rules by County — Central Florida

Every county has different rules. Here's what each one requires, allows, and prohibits — so you know exactly where you stand before you build.

Data verified — sourced from official county records

Minimum ADU size

400 sq ft

Maximum ADU size

1,000 sq ft (or 45% of primary home, whichever is less; 1,500 sq ft for lots 2+ acres)

Owner-occupancy required?

YES — property must be homesteaded

Special exception required?

YES — separate zoning approval before building permit

What's Allowed at a Glance

Owner Occupancy

Owner must occupy primary home OR ADU — cannot rent both units if living elsewhere

Special Exception

Special exception approval required before building permit application

Short-Term Rental

Short-term rentals prohibited — 30+ day leases only (no Airbnb/VRBO)

Detached ADUs

Detached ADUs permitted — subject to lot size and setback requirements

Container/Modular

Foundation-built container/modular units allowed — DBPR state review may apply

Bedroom Limit

Max 2 bedrooms per ADU

Appraisal Impact

ADU adds to property value — permitted and inspected units are appraised

Lot Size Threshold

Lot must be 1.5x minimum zoning lot size for a detached ADU

Setbacks

Setback TypeMeasurement
Rear property line (1-story)5 ft minimum
Rear property line (2-story)15 ft minimum
From primary dwelling10 ft minimum
Side yardMatches principal structure minimums for zoning district

Contact

  • Zoning questions: (407) 836-3111 | Zoning@ocfl.net
  • Building inspections / permit status: (407) 836-5550
  • Fast Track portal: orangecountyfl.net

Local Pages

Use the full local directory below to search by city, neighborhood, or county.

Source: Orange County Zoning Code § 38-1426 | orangecountyfl.net/PermitsLicenses/Permits/ResidentialAccessoryDwellingUnit.aspx. Requirements subject to change. Always verify directly with the county before starting any project.

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Full Local Directory

Find your municipality, neighborhood, or county page below. If you are unsure where your parcel falls, start with a free zoning check.

Orange County

All information on this page is sourced from official county and city records and is believed to be accurate as of the date listed. ADU regulations are subject to change without notice. Requirements vary by zoning district, parcel conditions, and local amendments. EarthNest Florida strongly recommends verifying all requirements directly with the relevant county or city before beginning any project. This page does not constitute legal or zoning advice.

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