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ADU Rules in Palm Beach County, Florida

How big a backyard home (accessory dwelling unit) can be in Palm Beach 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

Palm Beach County ADU rules at a glance

ADUs allowed?Yes, with conditions
Maximum ADU size800 sq ft on lots under 1 acre; 1,000 sq ft on lots of 1 acre or more
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
What the county rules say: “800 sq ft on lots under 1 acre; 1,000 sq ft on lots of 1+ acre”

Allowed in most residential zones on the same lot as a single-family home. Independent unit with kitchen, 1 bedroom, 1 bath. Must meet the primary dwelling's parking/dimensional requirements. Jupiter, Wellington, Boca Raton and other cities set their own rules — verify county vs. city jurisdiction.

Source: Palm Beach County ULDC; verified Jul 2026 (owner-occupancy not confirmed).

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 Palm Beach County before you build.

Confirm with Palm Beach County: 561-233-5200 · 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

Palm Beach County ADUs, answered

Can I build an ADU in Palm Beach County, Florida?

Yes, with conditions. Allowed in most residential zones on the same lot as a single-family home. Independent unit with kitchen, 1 bedroom, 1 bath. Must meet the primary dwelling's parking/dimensional requirements. Jupiter, Wellington, Boca Raton and other cities set their own rules — verify county vs. city jurisdiction.

How big can an ADU be in Palm Beach County?

800 sq ft on lots under 1 acre; 1,000 sq ft on lots of 1 acre or more.

Does the owner have to live on the property?

Our records don't confirm an owner-occupancy requirement for Palm Beach County — ask the county zoning department before you buy.

Can a manufactured home be an ADU in Palm Beach County?

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

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