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Accessory Structures

How Miami Gardens Handles Accessory Structures: A Practical Guide

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Miami Gardens maintains 27 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with accessory structures. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Miami Gardens falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Tiny Homes

Florida SB 184 (effective July 2025) requires all municipalities to permit ADUs including tiny homes on permanent foundations in single-family residential zones. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as recreational vehicles and cannot be used as permanent residences. All tiny homes must comply with the Florida Building Code and Miami-Dade HVHZ requirements.

Key details: On Foundation: Permitted as ADU (SB 184). On Wheels: Classified as RV: no permanent occupancy. Building Code: Full Florida Building Code + HVHZ. Min Lot Size: 7,500 sq ft for new ADU. Permit: Required for all installations.

Installing a tiny home without permits is a code violation. Using a tiny home on wheels as a permanent residence violates zoning regulations. Stop-work orders and fines apply.

ADU Rules

Florida Senate Bill 184 (effective July 1, 2025) mandates all local governments permit at least one ADU per single-family residential lot. Miami Gardens follows Miami-Dade County ADU standards which require a minimum lot size of 7,500 sq ft for new construction or 5,000 sq ft for garage conversions. ADUs must comply with accessory structure setbacks.

Key details: State Mandate: 1 ADU per SF lot (SB 184, eff. 7/1/2025). New Build Lot Size: 7,500 sq ft minimum. Garage Conversion: 5,000 sq ft minimum. Separate Sale: Prohibited: attached to principal. Extra Parking: Cannot be required (state law).

Building an ADU without permits is a serious code violation. Non-compliant structures may be required to be removed. Stop-work orders and fines apply.

The Bottom Line

Miami Gardens'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 Miami Gardens is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Miami Gardens's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.