Garage conversion rules in Davie, FL — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Davie's Land Development Code does not publish a dedicated 'garage conversion' section, but the rules controlling one are clear: a converted garage cannot create a separate living unit because, outside the permitted guest-cottage districts, no accessory structure may be designed for overnight habitation, and any conversion is a Florida Building Code permit project.
Converting a garage into living space in the Town of Davie is governed by general Land Development Code (Chapter 12) provisions rather than a standalone section. Sec. 12-33(A)(2)(d) provides that, except for a permitted 'guest cottage,' no accessory structure in a residential zoning district may be designed to allow overnight habitation, so a garage cannot be turned into an independent dwelling/rental unit in standard residential districts. Sec. 12-32 confirms that a second living unit (guest cottage) is permitted only in the RR, AG, A-1 and R-1 districts. A conversion that eliminates a required parking space must still satisfy Davie's off-street parking standards in Article VII (Sec. 12-202 et seq.), which require parking to be provided and maintained on the same lot. Any structural change, electrical, plumbing or mechanical work requires a building permit reviewed under Chapter 5 (Buildings and Building Regulations) and the Florida Building Code through the Davie Building Division. Conversions that change the exterior must keep the residential character of the neighborhood. Confirm parking and permitting details with the Davie Building Division and Planning & Zoning (954-797-1103) before starting.
Converting a garage into a separate dwelling or rental in a district where guest cottages are not permitted violates Sec. 12-33(A)(2)(d). Doing structural/electrical/plumbing work without permits violates Chapter 5 and the Florida Building Code; enforcement can require reversal of the work and permit penalties.
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