Florida ADU Laws 2026: Building Accessory Dwelling Units in Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Miami

Florida has increasingly embraced accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as solutions to housing affordability, though regulations vary significantly across municipalities. Understanding your specific city and county requirements is essential.

Florida Statewide Considerations

No statewide ADU law - Regulations set locally by:

• County ordinances
• City/municipal codes
• HOA restrictions (critical in Florida)

Florida Building Code applies - All ADUs must comply with state building code.

Key challenges:

• HOA restrictions very common
• Hurricane-resistant construction required
• Flood zone considerations
• High construction costs

Tampa ADU Regulations

Basic Requirements

Lot minimums:

• Typically 5,000+ sq ft
• Varies by zoning

Size limits:

• Maximum 1,000 sq ft OR 40% of main dwelling
• Single-story preferred

Setbacks:

• 5-10 feet typical
• Varies by district

Parking:

• 1 space required

Costs:

• $120,000-$250,000 typical
• Hurricane-resistant construction adds 15-25%

[Rental income](/blog/rental-property-analysis) potential:

• $1,100-$1,800/month typical

Orlando ADU Regulations

Requirements

More permissive than many Florida cities:

• Allows ADUs in most residential zones
• Size varies by lot and main house

Costs:

• $100,000-$200,000 typical
• More affordable than coastal markets

Rental potential:

• $900-$1,500/month
• Strong demand from theme park workers, UCF students

Jacksonville ADU Regulations

Emerging ADU market:

• Historically restrictive
• Recent reforms expanding options
• Check specific district rules

Costs:

• $90,000-$180,000 typical
• Most affordable major Florida market

Miami ADU Regulations

See complete Miami regulations:

• More complex than other Florida cities
• Strong condo restrictions
• See our Texas ADU guide for comparison

Florida [ADU Financing](/blog/heloc-for-adu-construction)

HonestCasa offers HELOC solutions for Florida ADU construction.

Options:

• HELOC: Most flexible
• [Cash-out refinance](/blog/cash-out-refinance-guide)
• Construction loans
• Personal loans (smaller projects)

Hurricane Considerations

Essential for Florida ADUs:

• Impact-resistant windows/doors
• Reinforced roof connections
• Proper drainage
• Flood elevation (if in zone)
• Higher insurance costs

Hurricane-resistant construction adds significant cost but essential for safety and insurance.

Conclusion

Florida ADUs offer income and housing flexibility but require navigating local regulations, HOA restrictions, and hurricane-resistant construction requirements. Research your specific city thoroughly and budget appropriately for Florida-specific requirements.

Related Articles

• [[California](/blog/california-heloc-guide) ADU Regulations Complete Guide](/blog/california-adu-regulations-complete-guide-2026)
• [[Texas ADU Regulations Guide](/blog/texas-adu-regulations-guide)](/blog/texas-adu-regulations-guide)
• ADU Building Guide: Planning Your Project
• HELOC for Home Improvements