Doral's Accessory Structures: The Rules That Matter
Every city handles accessory structures a little differently. In Doral, Florida, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.
Shed & Carport Rules
A shed or other residential accessory structure in Doral must be subordinate to the house it sits behind: it can't push the lot's total building coverage past the zoning district's cap, can't sit in a required yard or the front yard, and can't be turned into a guest apartment or home business space beyond storing the owner's own tools.
Key details: Coverage cap: Cannot exceed zoning district's max building coverage. Yard placement: Barred from front yard and other required yards. Use restriction: Cannot be a guest house or apartment. Home business limit: Only owner tool/equipment storage allowed. General penalty: Up to $500 fine or 60 days jail.
An accessory structure that violates section 74-24 or 74-26, such as a shed placed in the front yard or one exceeding the lot's maximum building coverage, is a Land Development Code violation, and Doral's general penalty under section 1-14 applies where Chapter 74 sets no specific fine: up to a $500 fine, up to 60 days in jail, or both, with each day the violation continues treated as a separate offense that can also be referred to the special magistrate under Chapter 11.
ADU Rules
Doral permits accessory dwelling units in certain residential zoning districts under its Land Development Code. ADUs must be subordinate to the principal dwelling, meet setback and size requirements, and obtain building permits. Florida's Live Local Act has expanded ADU rights statewide.
Key details: Permit Required: Yes, building permit needed. Size Limit: Subordinate to principal dwelling. STR Use: Prohibited. Wind Zone: HVHZ compliance required. Code Compliance: (305) 593-6740.
Unpermitted ADUs are subject to code enforcement action including violation notices, daily fines, and mandatory removal orders. Contact Doral Code Compliance at (305) 593-6740.
The Bottom Line
Doral'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 Doral is broadly strict or permissive.
This guide is based on Doral's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.