ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Orlando (2026)
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit requirements, fees, and process for Orlando, FL. Find out if you need a permit and how to apply.
Yes, a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Orlando, FL.
A ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Orlando, FL. The City of Orlando Office of Business Development and Permitting (BDP) handles permit applications for Orlando. Below you will find the current thresholds, fees, and process for obtaining a adu (accessory dwelling unit) permit in Orlando.
When Is a Permit Required?
When a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Is Required in Orlando: All ADU construction
Permit Fees
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Fees in Orlando: $10,000–$25,000 including Orange County impact fees. Estimated timeline: 4-6 weeks plan check; ministerial approval per FL HB 1339.
Estimated timeline: 4-6 weeks plan check; ministerial approval per FL HB 1339
How to Get a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Orlando
Verify whether your project meets the permit threshold in Orlando: All ADU construction.
Prepare your permit application and plans. Contact the City of Orlando Office of Business Development and Permitting (BDP) at https://www.orlando.gov/Our-Government/Departments-Offices/Executive-Offices/Office-of-Business-Development-and-Permitting for required documentation.
Submit your application online at https://cityview2.orlando.gov/CityViewWeb/ or in person at the City of Orlando Office of Business Development and Permitting (BDP).
Pay the permit fee: $10,000–$25,000 including Orange County impact fees.
Wait for plan check approval. Estimated timeline: 4-6 weeks plan check; ministerial approval per FL HB 1339.
Schedule required inspections through https://cityview2.orlando.gov/CityViewWeb/. All inspections must pass before project is finalized.
Important: Florida HB 1339 (2024) requires ministerial approval. Orange County impact fees (schools, transportation, parks) are significant in Orlando metro. Impact fees capped at single-family rate per state law.
Additional Requirements
- Orange County impact fees apply
- Florida Building Code compliance required
- Separate utility connections may be required
City of Orlando Office of Business Development and Permitting (BDP)
Phone: (407) 246-2271
Online Permits: https://cityview2.orlando.gov/CityViewWeb/
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm
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: Orlando Building Code — ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Requirements. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source