West Palm Beach, FL Accessory Structures: ADU Rules (2026)
ADU rules in West Palm Beach, FL, also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances, cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Key Facts
- Max Size
- 800 sq ft or 40 percent
- Lot Minimum
- 7,500 sq ft
- Owner Occupancy
- Required
- Short-Term
- Prohibited use
Summary
West Palm Beach allows accessory dwelling units in most single-family zoning districts under City Code §94 (Land Development Regulations) with a maximum 800 square feet or 40 percent of the principal dwelling, whichever is less.
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.
Full Breakdown
ADUs require a minimum 7,500 square foot lot, owner occupancy of either the primary or accessory unit, and one additional off-street parking space. They may be attached, detached, or above a garage. Short-term rental of an ADU is prohibited; only long-term tenancies of 30 days or more are allowed. The 2023 Live Local Act (SB 102) does not override these zoning standards for single-family ADUs but encourages workforce housing density bonuses in mixed-use zones.
Violations & Fines
Unpermitted ADU construction: stop-work order, permit penalty fees of double the standard fee, plus potential demolition order through the Special Magistrate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU on my property in West Palm Beach?
What are the size limits for an accessory dwelling unit in West Palm Beach?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in West Palm Beach
How West Palm Beach compares: Easiest Cities to Build an ADU·Florida rules heatmap·Compare West Palm Beach to another location·View the Florida accessory structures overview
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ADU Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Palm Beach County handle adu rules.