3 rules for unincorporated Marion County, Florida.
Verified from official government sources
In unincorporated Marion County, an accessory dwelling unit is regulated as a 'family/guest cottage/apartment' under Land Development Code Sec. 4.3.18, defined as a non-commercial dwelling unit smaller than the primary structure and located in the rear or side yard of the principal dwelling.
Marion County Land Development Code Sec. 4.3.18 (Ord. No. 17-08, 4-11-2017)
The family/guest cottage/apartment is an accessory non-commercial dwelling unit designed as an independent living unit smaller than the primary structure, which may be connected to the utility systems of the primary dwelling. The family/guest cottage/apartment may be constructed on a concrete foundation or slab, and shall be located in the rear or side yard of a principal dwelling.
Unincorporated Marion County allows sheds, storage buildings, and detached carports not exceeding 12 by 12 feet to be exempted from side or rear setbacks with a signed, notarized neighbor agreement under Land Development Code Sec. 4.3.27, while larger accessory structures must obtain a building permit acted on within 30 business days under Florida law.
Florida Statutes Sec. 553.792(1)(a) (2024)
Within 30 business days after receiving a complete and sufficient application, for an applicant using a local government plans reviewer to obtain the following building permits if the structure is less than 7,500 square feet: residential units, including a single-family residential unit or a single-family residential dwelling, accessory structure, alarm, electrical, irrigation, landscaping, mec...
No Marion County-specific ordinance separately addresses garage conversions; converting a garage to habitable space is governed by the Florida Building Code and Florida Statutes Sec. 553.79, which makes it unlawful to alter or modify any building without first obtaining a permit from the county building department.
Florida Statutes Sec. 553.79(1)(a) (2024)
After the effective date of the Florida Building Code adopted as herein provided, it shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, or governmental entity to construct, erect, alter, modify, repair, or demolish any building within this state without first obtaining a permit therefor from the appropriate enforcing agency.
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