Hialeah, FL Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

An ADU is an attached or detached accessory building, or portion thereof, that is used as an ancillary residential unit and is located on the same lot as the principal single-family dwelling. It has a separate kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area, and it is intended for use by a separate family of occupants. Charging a fee to use an ADU separately from the principal dwelling shall not constitute an unlawful duplex or multiple-family use. [...] Complying with ADU Requirements: Use is limited to one ADU on the property, and the use must be ancillary. [...] ADU may be attached or detached. [...] How can I legalize an existing unpermitted ADU? The process to legalize work without a permit is the same as applying for new project. You will be required to submit one set of drawn-to-scale plans showing all the work on the property to be reviewed and approved by all required disciplines. At a minimum, the plans should include the following: site plan, building floor plan and finish floor elevation, sufficient detail, where applicable, of any structural, electrical, mechanical, plumbing and roofing components. [...] Projects that have setback violations or are adding a second non-conforming residence (ex: multifamily use) will require approval from Zoning prior to permitting issuance.