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ADU Rules in Duval County, Florida

How big a backyard home (accessory dwelling unit) can be in Duval County, who can build one, and who to call to confirm — from the county's published rules.

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✓ From the county's published rules

Duval County ADU rules at a glance

ADUs allowed?Yes
Maximum ADU size750 sq ft or 25% of the main home, whichever is less
Owner must live on site?Yes — in the main home or the ADU
Manufactured home as an ADU?Often allowed, subject to the county's ADU and zoning rules
What the county rules say: “750 sq ft or 25% of the primary residence, whichever is less”

Jacksonville (consolidated with Duval) allows ADUs in most low-density single-family zones (Ord. 2022-0448-E). Owner must live in the primary home OR the ADU — not rent out both. ADU cannot be taller than the primary home. not permitted under city rules in the Beaches (Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach) or Baldwin, which self-govern.

Source: City of Jacksonville Zoning Code Sec. 656.403; verified Jul 2026.

Before You Build

Confirm the rules first

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 Duval County before you build.

Confirm with Duval County: 904-255-7800 · 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

Duval County ADUs, answered

Can I build an ADU in Duval County, Florida?

Yes. Jacksonville (consolidated with Duval) allows ADUs in most low-density single-family zones (Ord. 2022-0448-E). Owner must live in the primary home OR the ADU — not rent out both. ADU cannot be taller than the primary home. not permitted under city rules in the Beaches (Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach) or Baldwin, which self-govern.

How big can an ADU be in Duval County?

750 sq ft or 25% of the main home, whichever is less.

Does the owner have to live on the property?

Yes. Duval County requires the owner to live on the property, in either the main home or the ADU.

Can a manufactured home be an ADU in Duval County?

Often yes — many Florida counties allow a manufactured or modular home as an accessory dwelling unit, subject to Duval County's ADU size, lot, and setback rules. Confirm with the county for your parcel.

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