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ADU Rules in Sarasota County, Florida

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

Sarasota County ADU rules at a glance

ADUs allowed?Yes
Maximum ADU size500 sq ft (unincorporated county)
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
What the county rules say: “500 sq ft (unincorporated county)”

Allowed in RSF, RSF/PUD and RE districts in unincorporated county. Owner-occupancy required; short-term (under 30 day) rentals banned. NOTE: City of Sarasota is very different — no owner-occupancy and 7-day-min STRs allowed. Verify county vs. city jurisdiction.

Source: Sarasota County Code Sec. 5.4 / Appendix A; verified Jul 2026.

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 Sarasota County before you build.

Confirm with Sarasota County: 941-861-5000 · 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

Sarasota County ADUs, answered

Can I build an ADU in Sarasota County, Florida?

Yes. Allowed in RSF, RSF/PUD and RE districts in unincorporated county. Owner-occupancy required; short-term (under 30 day) rentals banned. NOTE: City of Sarasota is very different — no owner-occupancy and 7-day-min STRs allowed. Verify county vs. city jurisdiction.

How big can an ADU be in Sarasota County?

500 sq ft (unincorporated county).

Does the owner have to live on the property?

Yes. Sarasota County requires the owner to live on the property, in either the main home or the ADU.

Can a manufactured home be an ADU in Sarasota County?

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

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More ADU rules & homes

Manufactured & modular homes in Sarasota County · ADU rules for all 67 Florida counties · ADU-sized homes in our showroom

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