Accessory Structures in Highlands County, FL (2026)
2 rules for unincorporated Highlands County, Florida.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rental Restrictions
In unincorporated Highlands County, a guesthouse built as an accessory to a single-family home is allowed only if the owner signs an agreement that it will not be used for rental purposes. The restriction applies in the EU Estate, AU Agricultural and R-1A residential districts, and Development Services enforces it through the zoning permit process for the accessory structure.
Highlands County Guesthouse Rental Ban
Significant RestrictionsHighlands County Code § 12.05.201
10.One guesthouse as an accessory to a principal dwelling, provided that the owner shall sign an agreement that such guesthouse will not be used for rental purposes.
Shed & Carport Rules
A shed or other detached accessory building on a residential lot in unincorporated Highlands County can't sit in the front yard, must stay at least seven and one-half feet from any lot line, and cannot be taller than the house unless it matches its roof and materials, capped at 24 feet either way. Mobile homes can't be converted into accessory structures.
Highlands County Shed & Accessory Building Rules
Some RestrictionsHighlands County Code § 12.05.300
A.All customary accessory uses and detached buildings will be incidental and shall:1.Not be located in any front yard. (Lakefront property has the option of declaring the lake side the front yard. However, if the lake side is declared the front, accessory structures shall meet the minimum front yard setback required for the district in which it is located.)2.Be located at least seven and one-ha...
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