Home › ADU Rules by County › Marion County
How big a backyard home (accessory dwelling unit) can be in Marion County, who can build one, and who to call to confirm — from the county's published rules.
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| ADUs allowed? | Yes, with conditions |
|---|---|
| Maximum ADU size | No fixed cap — the ADU just has to stay smaller than the main home |
| Minimum lot size | 1 acre (typical) |
| 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 |
Allowed on most parcels with enough land; detached ADUs generally need ~1 acre. No explicit square-footage cap as long as the ADU stays subordinate to the primary home. Septic capacity must accommodate the extra unit. City of Ocala has its own rules; The Villages HOAs largely prohibit detached ADUs.
Source: Marion County Land Development Code; verified Jul 2026 (specifics vary by parcel).
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 Marion County before you build.
Confirm with Marion County: 352-438-2600 · 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. Allowed on most parcels with enough land; detached ADUs generally need ~1 acre. No explicit square-footage cap as long as the ADU stays subordinate to the primary home. Septic capacity must accommodate the extra unit. City of Ocala has its own rules; The Villages HOAs largely prohibit detached ADUs.
No fixed cap — the ADU just has to stay smaller than the main home.
Our records don't confirm an owner-occupancy requirement for Marion 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 Marion County's ADU size, lot, and setback rules. Confirm with the county for your parcel.
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