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How big a backyard home (accessory dwelling unit) can be in Santa Rosa 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 50% 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 |
ADUs allowed as 'guest cottages'. Must sit 60 ft from the front property line and meet the principal structure's side/rear setbacks. NOTE: park-model tiny homes are not permitted as guest cottages. Milton, Gulf Breeze, Jay set their own rules.
Source: Santa Rosa County Land Development Code; 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 Santa Rosa County before you build.
Confirm with Santa Rosa County: 850-981-7000 · 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. ADUs allowed as 'guest cottages'. Must sit 60 ft from the front property line and meet the principal structure's side/rear setbacks. NOTE: park-model tiny homes are not permitted as guest cottages. Milton, Gulf Breeze, Jay set their own rules.
up to 50% of the main home.
Our records don't confirm an owner-occupancy requirement for Santa Rosa 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 Santa Rosa County's ADU size, lot, and setback rules. Confirm with the county for your parcel.
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Manufactured & modular homes in Santa Rosa County · ADU rules for all 67 Florida counties · ADU-sized homes in our showroom
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