Home › ADU Rules by County › Orange County
How big a backyard home (accessory dwelling unit) can be in Orange 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 | 1,000 sq ft or 45% of the main home, whichever is less |
| Minimum ADU size | 500 sq ft |
| 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 |
Allowed as a special exception in any residential or agricultural district. Single ownership required; owner must occupy the primary or the ADU, and the primary must be homesteaded. One ADU per lot, max 2 bedrooms. No separate water/power meter for attached units. Must be compatible with the primary home and neighborhood. City of Orlando has its own ADU code.
Source: Orange County Code Sec. 38-1426; 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 Orange County before you build.
Confirm with Orange County: 407-836-3111 · 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 as a special exception in any residential or agricultural district. Single ownership required; owner must occupy the primary or the ADU, and the primary must be homesteaded. One ADU per lot, max 2 bedrooms. No separate water/power meter for attached units. Must be compatible with the primary home and neighborhood. City of Orlando has its own ADU code.
1,000 sq ft or 45% of the main home, whichever is less. The minimum ADU size is 500 sq ft.
Yes. Orange County requires the owner to live on the property, in either the main home or the ADU.
Often yes — many Florida counties allow a manufactured or modular home as an accessory dwelling unit, subject to Orange County's ADU size, lot, and setback rules. Confirm with the county for your parcel.
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