Accessory Structures in Fort Myers, FL (2026)
5 verified accessory structures rules for Fort Myers, Florida, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Fort Myers permits non-commercial guesthouses, cottages, and garage apartments accessory to a principal dwelling under LDC § 118.3.11 (defined in Chapter 142). These accessory dwellings are not subject to density calculations. Garage apartments specifically are only permitted in the Dean Park Historic District under LDC § 118.3.4.B. Size is typically capped at 50% of the principal dwelling or 1,000 sq ft (whichever is smaller).
Fort Myers ADU / Guest House Rules
Some RestrictionsShed Rules
Fort Myers regulates sheds as accessory structures under LDC § 118.3.4.A. Sheds under 200 sq ft may have a 5-foot side and rear setback in residential districts; larger sheds must meet the zone's full accessory setbacks. A Florida Building Permit is required for any shed over 200 sq ft, and engineered wind-load anchorage to 170 mph (Lee County Wind Zone) is required for permitted structures.
Fort Myers Shed Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Converting a garage to habitable space in Fort Myers requires a Florida Building Permit and zoning review. If the conversion creates a separate dwelling unit with kitchen and entrance, it becomes a guest house/ADU subject to LDC § 118.3.11. Off-street parking required for the principal dwelling must still be met. Garage apartments specifically are only allowed in the Dean Park Historic District.
Fort Myers Garage Conversion
Some RestrictionsCarport Rules
Carports in Fort Myers are accessory structures regulated by LDC § 118.3.4.A and require a Florida Building Permit for any structure over 200 sq ft. Engineered hurricane anchorage to 170 mph (Lee County wind zone) is required. Attached carports must meet the principal-building setbacks (typically 20 ft front, 10 ft side, 10 ft rear in RS-5/6/7); detached carports under 200 sq ft may use the reduced 5 ft side/rear accessory setback.
Fort Myers Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsTiny Homes
Tiny homes on a permanent foundation in Fort Myers are treated as either a single-family dwelling or an accessory guest house under LDC § 118.3.11. They must meet the Florida Building Code (including FBC Appendix Q for dwellings 400 sq ft or less) and the zone's lot size and setback standards. RS-7 (the smallest single-family zone) requires 5,000 sq ft min lot, which precludes ultra-small lot tiny homes. Tiny homes on wheels (RV class) cannot be used as a primary residence in residential zones.
Fort Myers Tiny Home Rules
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for Lee County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Fort Myers city rules.
Accessory Structures in Lee County →