Home › ADU Rules by County › Broward County
How big a backyard home (accessory dwelling unit) can be in Broward County, who can build one, and who to call to confirm — from the county's published rules.
Know your main home's size? Get the exact limit for your lot in seconds.
| ADUs allowed? | Yes, with conditions |
|---|---|
| Maximum ADU size | Varies by city — typically 400–800 sq ft, up to about 50% of the main home |
| Owner must live on site? | Not confirmed in our records |
| Manufactured home as an ADU? | Often allowed, subject to the county's ADU and zoning rules |
Broward has NO single county-wide ADU standard — rules are set by each city (Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, etc.). Most require an annually-renewed Certificate of Use obtainable only by the owner, and many require owner-occupancy of one unit. County is in the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone — strictest construction standards. Check with your city's development services department.
Source: Broward is municipality-governed for ADUs; verified Jul 2026.
Inside City Limits
If the property is inside city limits, the city's ADU rules apply instead of the county's.
Before You Build
ADU rules are set by each county and city — Florida law (Fla. Stat. 163.31771) lets local governments allow ADUs but doesn't require it — and they can change, so always confirm the current rule with Broward County before you build.
Confirm with Broward County: 954-765-4400 · zoning department website ↗
Zoning is set locally and changes often. Answers are guidance only, not a permit guarantee. Always confirm with the local building/zoning department before purchase.
Common Questions
Yes, with conditions. Broward has NO single county-wide ADU standard — rules are set by each city (Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, etc.). Most require an annually-renewed Certificate of Use obtainable only by the owner, and many require owner-occupancy of one unit. County is in the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone — strictest construction standards. Check with your city's development services department.
Varies by city — typically 400–800 sq ft, up to about 50% of the main home.
Our records don't confirm an owner-occupancy requirement for Broward County — ask the county zoning department before you buy.
Often yes — many Florida counties allow a manufactured or modular home as an accessory dwelling unit, subject to Broward County's ADU size, lot, and setback rules. Confirm with the county for your parcel.
Keep Exploring
ADU rules for all 67 Florida counties · ADU-sized homes in our showroom
We'll confirm Broward County's rules for your property and help you pick a home that fits — free.
Start Here