Coral Gables, FL Accessory Structures: ADU Rules (2026)
ADU rules in Coral Gables, FL, also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances, cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Key Facts
- Local Term
- Ancillary apartment
- Board Review
- Board of Architects approval required
- Owner Occupancy
- Required
- STR Use
- Prohibited
- Development Services
- (305) 460-5235
Summary
Coral Gables strictly regulates accessory dwelling units through its Zoning Code and Board of Architects review. ADUs are limited to ancillary apartments in select residential zoning districts with significant size, design, and owner-occupancy requirements enforced by Development Services.
orizing, local governments to adopt, by a specified date, an ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units in certain areas; authorizing a local government to provide a density bonus incentive to landowners who make certain real property donations to assist in the provision of affordable housing for military families; requiring the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability to evaluate the efficacy of using mezzanine finance and the potential of tiny homes for specified purposes, etc. Effective Date: 7/1/2025 Last Action: 6/16/2025 Senate - Died in returning Messages Bill Text: Web Page | PDF Senate Committee References: Community Affairs (CA) Appropriations Committee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development (ATD) Rules (RC) View By Bill Version View By Categ
Full Breakdown
The City of Coral Gables permits ancillary apartments (the local term for ADUs) in certain single-family residential zoning districts under the Zoning Code. Ancillary apartments must be subordinate to the principal dwelling and cannot exceed specific size limits established by the zoning district. All ADU proposals require Board of Architects approval for design compatibility with the neighborhood character and Mediterranean architectural standards. ADUs must comply with setback requirements for the applicable zoning district, maintain adequate parking, and meet all Florida Building Code requirements including HVHZ wind load standards. Owner occupancy of either the primary residence or the ADU is required. ADUs cannot be used as short-term rentals. A building permit is required from Development Services at (305) 460-5235, and projects must go through site plan review.
Violations & Fines
Unpermitted ADUs are subject to code enforcement action at (305) 460-5216, including violation notices, daily fines, and mandatory removal orders. Converting structures without permits creates liability for unpermitted construction and zoning violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sources & Official References
Other rules in Coral Gables
How Coral Gables compares: Easiest Cities to Build an ADU·Florida rules heatmap·Compare Coral Gables to another location·View the Florida accessory structures overview
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