Gulfport, MS Accessory Structures: ADU Rules (2026)

Gulfport's zoning is contained in Appendix A of the Code of Ordinances, with form-based regulation in Appendix D (SmartCode) covering transect zones (T1-T6). Accessory cottages (the city's term for ADUs) are typically capped at 1,000 sq ft, may not exceed the height of the primary dwelling, and must sit in the rear yard with external siding and roofing materials matching the primary house. Common dimensional standards require a side setback of at least 5 ft and a rear setback of at least 10 ft, with placement in the rear yard only - no accessory structure may occupy the required front yard. Recreational vehicles, travel trailers, and similar movable structures may not be used as permanent dwellings. Because most Gulfport residential parcels lie within FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas (post-Katrina mapping), an ADU's lowest floor must also be elevated per Appendix B - Flood Damage Prevention (typically BFE plus 1 ft of freeboard for A-zones; bottom of lowest horizontal structural member at BFE+1 ft for V-zones). Mississippi state law (Miss. Code Ann. Title 17, especially §17-1-1 et seq. for zoning and §21-19-25 for building code adoption) grants municipalities zoning authority but does not preempt or mandate ADUs. Building codes (IRC/IBC) are adopted under Miss. Code Ann. §17-2-1 et seq. via the Mississippi Building Codes Council. Permits are issued by the City of Gulfport Urban Development Department / Planning and Zoning Division, (228) 868-5700, 311@gulfport-ms.gov.