Home › ADU Rules by County › Manatee County
How big a backyard home (accessory dwelling unit) can be in Manatee County, who can build one, and who to call to confirm — from the county's published rules.
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| ADUs allowed? | Yes |
|---|---|
| Maximum ADU size | Up to 80% 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 |
Recently loosened rules. Allowed in A, A-1, RSF, PD and Village districts. One subordinate structure (ADU OR guest house) on lots under 5 acres; more with acreage. Both detached ADUs and garage apartments allowed. PROHIBITED in the Whitfield Residential Overlay and Bayshore Gardens Park & Recreation districts. Bradenton and other cities set their own rules.
Source: Manatee County revised ADU regulations; verified Jul 2026.
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 Manatee County before you build.
Confirm with Manatee County: 941-748-4501 · 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. Recently loosened rules. Allowed in A, A-1, RSF, PD and Village districts. One subordinate structure (ADU OR guest house) on lots under 5 acres; more with acreage. Both detached ADUs and garage apartments allowed. PROHIBITED in the Whitfield Residential Overlay and Bayshore Gardens Park & Recreation districts. Bradenton and other cities set their own rules.
up to 80% of the main home.
Our records don't confirm an owner-occupancy requirement for Manatee 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 Manatee County's ADU size, lot, and setback rules. Confirm with the county for your parcel.
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Manufactured & modular homes in Manatee County · ADU rules for all 67 Florida counties · ADU-sized homes in our showroom
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