Accessory Structures in Biloxi, MS: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Biloxi or are thinking about moving there, accessory structures are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Biloxi has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of accessory structures, and some of them might surprise you.

ADU Rules

Biloxi regulates accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and accessory structures through the Land Development Ordinance (LDO), Chapter 23, primarily Article 23-4 (Use Standards). Detached ADUs are limited to 800 square feet and 20 feet in height, must sit in the rear yard on a permanent foundation, and follow district setbacks (typically 5 ft side, 10 ft rear). Mississippi has no statewide ADU mandate; zoning authority flows from Miss. Code Ann. Title 17 (Local Government).

Key details: Code: LDO Chapter 23, Article 23-4 (Use Standards). Max Size: 800 sq ft (detached ADU). Max Height: 20 ft. Placement: Rear yard, permanent foundation. Setbacks: 5 ft side / 10 ft rear typical.

Building or occupying an unpermitted ADU, exceeding the 800 sq ft size cap, encroaching into required setbacks, or installing an ADU in a flood zone without proper elevation can trigger stop-work orders, code enforcement citations, and required corrective work or removal under the LDO and Chapter 8 (Flood Damage Prevention). Unsafe structures may be abated as nuisances.

Garage Conversions

Converting a garage to habitable space in Biloxi requires a Certificate of Zoning Compliance and a building permit from the Community Development Department. The work must meet the Mississippi-adopted International Residential Code (IRC) and Land Development Ordinance setback, parking, and zoning standards. Loss of required off-street parking is a common denial reason.

Key details: Required Permits: Zoning Compliance + Building. Building Code: IRC (Mississippi-adopted). Min Ceiling Height: 7 ft (IRC). Accessory Structure Setbacks: 3 ft side/rear minimum. Building Phone: (228) 435-6270.

Converting a garage without a Certificate of Zoning Compliance and building permit, or eliminating required off-street parking, violates the Biloxi Land Development Ordinance and may trigger stop-work orders, fines, and removal orders under Section 23-9-6. Unpermitted work also blocks future Certificates of Occupancy and complicates resale.

Shed Rules

Biloxi regulates sheds and outbuildings through local building and zoning codes. Small sheds under 120 to 200 square feet may be exempt from permit requirements in many municipalities.

Key details: Permit Exempt: Under 120 to 200 sq ft. Setback: 3 to 5 ft from property line. Habitation: Prohibited. Flood Zone: Additional rules apply.

Unpermitted structure: $100 to $300 fine. Structures violating setbacks may require relocation or removal. Habitation of sheds results in immediate enforcement action.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Biloxi gives residents more flexibility on shed rules.

The Bottom Line

Biloxi's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Biloxi is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Biloxi's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.