ADU Rules in Orlando, FL (2026)
ADU rules, permit requirements, size limits, and fees for Orlando, FL. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Yes, ADUs are allowed in Orlando, FL.
Orlando, FL permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on residential properties. ADUs — also called granny flats, in-law units, backyard cottages, or secondary suites — are secondary housing units on a single-family or multifamily lot. State and local law governs the approval process. In Orlando, the City of Orlando Office of Business Development and Permitting (BDP) handles ADU permit applications. Below you will find the current size limits, setbacks, fees, and timeline for building an ADU in Orlando.
ADU Size Limits
ADU Size Limits in Orlando: Detached ADU: up to 1000 sq ft (max height: varies — see official source). Attached ADU: 1000 sq ft. Orlando Land Development Code Chapter 65 governs accessory dwelling units. Detached ADUs permitted in single-family and multifamily residential zones subject to size and dimensional standards. Florida HB 1339 (2024) establishes that cities cannot impose standards more restrictive than the state baseline. Orlando does not use JADU terminology.
| Type | Max Size | Max Height |
|---|---|---|
| Detached ADU | 1000 sq ft · Verified June 6, 2026 · Source | See official source |
| Attached ADU | 1000 sq ft · Verified June 6, 2026 · Source | See official source |
Permit Fees
ADU Permit Fees in Orlando: Plan check fee: $500–$2,000. Building permit fee: Based on construction value — typically $1,000–$4,000. Impact fees: Orange County impact fees capped at single-family rate per Florida HB 1339 (2024). Orange County Transportation, Schools, and Parks impact fees apply — previously $15,000–$25,000 combined; now reduced for ADUs. School fees: Orange County School Impact Fee applies — approximately $4,000–$6,000. Total estimated permit cost: Varies.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Plan Check | $500–$2,000 |
| Building Permit | Based on construction value — typically $1,000–$4,000 |
| Impact Fees | Orange County impact fees capped at single-family rate per Florida HB 1339 (2024). Orange County Transportation, Schools, and Parks impact fees apply — previously $15,000–$25,000 combined; now reduced for ADUs |
| School Fees | Orange County School Impact Fee applies — approximately $4,000–$6,000 |
| Total Estimate | See official source |
Permit Timeline
Orlando ADU Permit Timeline: Not stated in code — building permit required per Orlando §58.900; timeline not specified Apply through the City of Orlando Office of Business Development and Permitting (BDP) online permit portal. Phone: (407) 246-2271.
Setback Requirements
ADU Setback Requirements in Orlando: Front setback: follows zone standard. Side setback: no minimum. Rear setback: no minimum.
Parking Requirements
Parking Requirements: additional parking space required if ADU is greater than 500 sq. ft.
Restrictions & Requirements
- ADU must comply with Orlando Land Development Code Chapter 65 dimensional standards
- Detached ADU must be located in rear yard behind principal structure
- ADU cannot be sold separately from principal lot
- Short-term rental of ADU requires Florida DBPR license and Orange County compliance
- Tourist zones (T-designation overlay areas) near theme parks have specific STR rules
- ADU must have permanent foundation — no manufactured homes or vehicles
How Many ADUs Are Allowed?
Number of ADUs Allowed in Orlando: Single-family lots: 1 detached or attached ADU per single-family lot in R-1/R-1A/R-1AA zones. Multifamily properties: Accessory units permitted in R-2, R-3A, R-3B zones per code provisions. Florida HB 1339 (2024) establishes minimum statewide allowances. Orlando's local code may permit additional units in multifamily zones. Activity Center zones (AC-1, AC-2, AC-3) may allow greater residential density.
- Single-Family Lots
- 1 detached or attached ADU per single-family lot in R-1/R-1A/R-1AA zones
- Multifamily Properties
- Accessory units permitted in R-2, R-3A, R-3B zones per code provisions
Statewide Preemption
ADU Preemption
We could not confirm a statewide ADU preemption statute for Florida.
View Florida preemption detailsHistoric District Considerations
Historic District Requirements: Orlando has 6 historic districts where additional design review may be required for ADU construction. Design review approval is required before obtaining a building permit for properties in historic overlay zones. City of Orlando has 6 locally designated historic districts including Lake Eola Heights, College Park, Colonialtown North, Delaney Park, and others. Historic Preservation Board reviews exterior changes to contributing structures. Certificate of Appropriateness required for alterations. Thornton Park neighborhood has additional design standards. National Register nominations cover some additional areas. Look up historic district boundaries at: https://www.orlando.gov/Our-Government/Departments-Offices/Economic-Development/City-Planning/Historic-Preservation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Orlando?
Yes. Orlando, FL allows accessory dwelling units. On a single-family lot you can build 1 detached or attached ADU per single-family lot in R-1/R-1A/R-1AA zones.
How big can an ADU be in Orlando?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in Orlando is 1,000 square feet.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Orlando?
The typical ADU permit timeline in Orlando is Not stated in code — building permit required per Orlando §58.900; timeline not specified. Total estimated permit fees are Not stated in code — see Ch. 65 fee schedule.
Do I need extra parking for an ADU in Orlando?
Orlando parking rules for ADUs: additional parking space required if ADU is greater than 500 sq. ft.
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in Orlando?
Owner-occupancy requirement in Orlando: Not stated in Orlando ADU code — FL HB1339 (2024) eliminated statewide owner-occupancy requirements
Source: Orlando Land Development Code Chapter 65; Florida Statutes 166.0451 (HB 1339, 2024). Last verified April 5, 2026. View source