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.

Current ordinanceLast verified: May 20, 2026

Minimum ADU size

400 sq ft

Maximum ADU size

1,000 sq ft (or 50% of primary, whichever is less)

Owner-occupancy required?

NO — no owner-occupancy requirement (post SB 48)

Special exception required?

No — ADUs permitted by-right in single-family zones (post SB 48)

What's Allowed at a Glance

By-right ADUs

Allowed by-right in all single-family zones under current SB 48 alignment

Owner Occupancy

No owner-occupancy requirement

Parking

No extra parking required when driveway space exists

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

Source: Orange County Ready Set Orange | ocfl.net/PlanningDevelopment/ReadySetOrange.aspx. Citation: https://www.ocfl.net/PlanningDevelopment/ReadySetOrange.aspx. Requirements subject to change. Always verify directly with the county before starting any project.

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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 per jurisdiction. ADU regulations are subject to change without notice. Requirements vary by zoning district, parcel conditions, and local amendments. Prefabricated.co 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.

Active tab last verified: May 20, 2026 (Current ordinance)