Tampa, FL Accessory Structures: ADU Rules (2026)

Tampa permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in RS-50, RS-60, RS-75, and RS-100 zoning districts as a permitted accessory use, subject to City Code Chapter 27. An ADU may be attached, detached, or above a garage, with a maximum floor area of 800 square feet or 50 percent of the primary dwelling's heated area, whichever is less. Minimum unit size is typically 400 square feet. The lot must meet the underlying district's minimum area, and only one ADU is allowed per parcel. One additional off-street parking space is required, and the ADU must share a single utility connection with the main home unless separately metered for stormwater. Detached ADUs must meet accessory structure setbacks (typically 5 feet side/rear) and height limits (usually 25 feet). Tampa requires a building permit and site plan review through Construction Services, and historic district properties (Hyde Park, Tampa Heights, Ybor City) require Architectural Review Commission approval. Short-term rental of an ADU is generally prohibited unless the property is licensed and zoned for transient lodging. Owner-occupancy of either the primary dwelling or the ADU is required in some overlay districts. Florida's recent Live Local Act (2023) and follow-on legislation encourage ADU development, and Tampa has streamlined review in certain infill areas.