Pasco County, FL Accessory Structures: ADU Rules (2026)
ADU rules in Pasco County, FL, also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances, cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Key Facts
- Max size
- 1,200 sq ft living space
- Size vs. main home
- Must be smaller than principal unit
- Number per lot
- One (1) ADU per lot
- Setbacks / height
- Match principal structure zoning
- Foundation
- Permanent fixed foundation required
- Code Section
- LDC Sec. 530.24 (Ord. 25-22)
Summary
Unincorporated Pasco County allows one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) per lot in zoning districts that permit single-family dwellings. Under LDC Section 530.24, an ADU may not exceed 1,200 square feet of living space, must be smaller than the principal unit, and must meet the principal structure's setbacks, height, and lot coverage.
530.24 Accessory Dwelling Units. A. Intent and Purpose. To allow Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to be constructed in zoning districts that allow single family dwelling units and in portions of MPUDs that have single family dwellings as principal permitted uses. ... 1. Dimensional Standards. a. Size. The minimum size of an ADU shall be subject to the Florida Building Code. ADUs shall not exceed 1,200 square feet of living space. The ADU shall be smaller than the principal unit. b. Setbacks. The ADU shall comply with applicable principal structure zoning setbacks. c. Height. Shall not exceed the height limitations of the zoning district. d. Lot Coverage. Shall not exceed the lot coverage of the zoning district. ... 3. Additional Standards. ... b. No more than one (1) ADU may be permitted per lot. ... d. A lot containing an ADU shall not be subdivided to separate the ADU from the principal dwelling unit unless such division can meet all applicable standards of the zoning district, land development regulations, and the Comprehensive Plan. ... Subdividing the parcel shall cause the ADU to become a principal structure. All applicable impact and mobility fees shall be paid.
Full Breakdown
Pasco County Ordinance No. 24, which allows Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in any zoning district that permits single-family dwellings, and in portions of MPUDs with single-family dwellings as a principal use. An ADU is an ancillary or secondary living unit with a separate kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area; it may be detached, attached, a repurposed or new interior space, or an apartment over a garage. The minimum size is set by the Florida Building Code and the maximum is 1,200 square feet of living space, and the ADU must be smaller than the principal unit.
4 may be sought to deviate from size or setbacks). 1; the unit must be on a permanent fixed foundation; and where the principal home is on septic, the applicant must obtain an approval letter from the Florida Department of Health in Pasco County. A lot containing an ADU may not be subdivided to separate the ADU unless the division meets all zoning, land development, and Comprehensive Plan standards, in which case the ADU becomes a principal structure and all applicable impact and mobility fees are paid.
Violations & Fines
Constructing or occupying an ADU without permits, exceeding 1,200 square feet, building a second ADU, or making the ADU larger than the principal unit violates LDC Section 530.24 and is enforced by Pasco County Code Enforcement, which can issue a notice of violation, require correction or removal, and refer the matter to the Code Enforcement Special Magistrate for fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU (backyard cottage or in-law suite) in unincorporated Pasco County?
How big can a Pasco County ADU be?
Can I rent my ADU short-term or sell it separately?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pasco County
How Pasco County compares: Easiest Cities to Build an ADU·Florida rules heatmap·Compare Pasco County to another location·View the Florida accessory structures overview
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