Can I Build ADU in Orlando, FL? (2026)
Find out if you can build a adu in Orlando, FL. Rules, permit requirements, costs, and next steps.
Yes, ADUs are allowed in Orlando, FL. California state law ensures by-right approval.
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary housing unit on a residential lot — also called a granny flat, in-law suite, or backyard cottage. In Orlando, FL, ADUs are permitted by right under state law, making them one of the most accessible ways to add housing on your property. ADUs can be detached, attached to the main home, or created by converting an existing garage or accessory structure.
ADU Rules in Orlando
ADU Rules in Orlando: Detached ADU max size: 750 sq ft. Attached ADU max size: 50% of principal dwelling floor area. Setbacks: 5 ft side, 5 ft rear. Owner-occupancy: Owner-occupancy requirement eliminated statewide per Florida HB 1339 (2024). Neither primary dwelling nor ADU requires owner-occupancy.. State preemption applies: FL law requires Orlando to approve compliant ADUs by right.
Costs & Fees
ADU permits in Orlando: Total estimated permit cost: $10,000–$25,000 total permit and impact fees. Contact the City of Orlando Office of Business Development and Permitting (BDP) for current fee schedule.
Timeline
Ministerial approval required per Florida HB 1339 — no discretionary review for code-compliant ADUs. Orlando BDP typically processes ADU permits in 4-6 weeks for plan check. Construction typically 4-10 months.
Next Steps
Next steps for building an ADU in Orlando: 1. Review full ADU rules including size limits, setbacks, and parking. 2. Apply for an ADU permit through the City of Orlando Office of Business Development and Permitting (BDP) at https://cityview2.orlando.gov/CityViewWeb/. 3. Hire a licensed contractor familiar with FL ADU requirements.
City of Orlando Office of Business Development and Permitting (BDP)
Phone: (407) 246-2271
Online Permits: https://cityview2.orlando.gov/CityViewWeb/
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU on my Orlando property?
Yes. Florida HB 1339 (2024) requires Orlando to permit ADUs by-right without owner-occupancy requirements. Detached ADUs are allowed in Orlando's single-family zones (R-1, R-1A, R-1AA). Maximum size is typically 750 sqft. Permits must be processed ministerially — no discretionary review for code-compliant ADUs. Orange County impact fees apply but are capped at single-family rates per state law.
Is my address in the City of Orlando or Orange County?
Many addresses in the 'Orlando area' are actually in unincorporated Orange County, not the City of Orlando. The City of Orlando is relatively small — 115 square miles. Popular areas like International Drive, Lake Buena Vista (near Disney World), Kissimmee, and Celebration are in Orange County or other jurisdictions. Check your address using the Orange County Property Appraiser's website or call the City of Orlando at (407) 246-2269 to confirm jurisdiction.
What are the short-term rental rules in Orlando?
A Florida DBPR Vacation Rental License is required for all STRs. City of Orlando also requires a Business Tax Receipt. Orange County Tourist Development Tax (6%) and Florida state sales tax (7%) apply. If your property is in unincorporated Orange County (not City of Orlando), different Orange County regulations apply. Orange County has specific vacation rental regulations for areas near theme parks. Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO collect and remit applicable taxes.
What is Orlando's Activity Center zoning?
Orlando's Activity Center (AC-1, AC-2, AC-3) zones are mixed-use designations along major arterials designed to accommodate higher-density, transit-oriented development. Activity Centers allow residential, commercial, and office uses in the same building or block. AC-1 is the most intensive, allowing buildings up to approximately 12 stories. AC zones are found along Orange Avenue, Colonial Drive, OBT, and other major corridors.
How do I find the zoning for my Orlando property?
Use the Orlando CityView mapping portal at cityview2.orlando.gov/CityViewWeb/. Enter your address to find your zoning designation, land use category, and other property information. The Orlando Office of Business Development and Permitting (BDP) at (407) 246-2269 can answer zoning questions. Remember to confirm your property is in City of Orlando jurisdiction — many Orlando-area addresses are in Orange County.
Does Orlando have hurricane building requirements?
Yes. Orlando is in Florida's wind zone and all construction must comply with Florida Building Code wind-resistance requirements. While Orlando is far inland compared to coastal cities, it has experienced significant wind damage from hurricanes. All roofing requires Florida Product Approval. Hurricane tie-downs required for structural framing. Wind mitigation inspections are recommended for insurance savings. The 2024 hurricane season (Helene, Milton) highlighted Central Florida's vulnerability.
Source: City of Orlando Office of Business Development and Permitting (BDP) — Building Regulations. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source