Orlando, FL Accessory Structures: ADU Permits (2026)

Orlando's land use is governed by the Orlando Land Development Code (LDC). Accessory dwelling units (ADUs), historically called garage apartments or accessory apartments, are addressed in LDC Chapter 58 (Zoning) and Chapter 65 (Definitions). ADUs are permitted in the R-1, R-1A, R-1AA, R-1AAA, R-2A, and R-2B residential districts subject to lot-size minimums, accessory-structure setbacks, and a typical size cap of roughly 800 sq ft or 50% of the principal dwelling, whichever is less. The 2024 Florida HB 1031 (codified at FL Statute §163.31771) further requires municipalities to permit ADUs in single-family zones with reasonable standards including at least one off-street parking space and compliance with the Florida Building Code. Permitting in Orlando requires: (1) a Zoning Determination Letter or pre-application meeting with the Planning Division; (2) a Building Permit issued by Orlando Permitting Services under the Florida Building Code as adopted in City Code Chapter 24; (3) a Tree Removal Permit under LDC Chapter 60 if specimen trees are impacted; (4) for properties in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas (common near Lake Underhill, Lake Como, and the Little Econ corridor), elevation at or above the Design Flood Elevation under Florida Building Code §1612 and City Code Chapter 26 (Floodplain Management). Orange County does not impose separate ADU zoning rules on incorporated Orlando parcels.