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ADU Rules in Seminole County, Florida

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

Seminole County ADU rules at a glance

ADUs allowed?Yes
Maximum ADU size1,000 sq ft or 35% of the main home, whichever is less
Minimum lot size5,000 sq ft
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: “35% of the primary structure's gross floor area or 1,000 sq ft, whichever is less”

One ADU per single-family detached home, administratively approved in A-1, RC-1, single-family districts and single-family PDs. Lot must be at least 50 ft wide and 5,000 sq ft. One off-street parking space required (paved/stabilized, same driveway). Cities (Sanford, Altamonte Springs, Oviedo) set their own rules.

Source: Seminole County Land Development Code (Ord. 2021-13); 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 Seminole County before you build.

Confirm with Seminole County: 407-665-7371 · 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

Seminole County ADUs, answered

Can I build an ADU in Seminole County, Florida?

Yes. One ADU per single-family detached home, administratively approved in A-1, RC-1, single-family districts and single-family PDs. Lot must be at least 50 ft wide and 5,000 sq ft. One off-street parking space required (paved/stabilized, same driveway). Cities (Sanford, Altamonte Springs, Oviedo) set their own rules.

How big can an ADU be in Seminole County?

1,000 sq ft or 35% of the main home, whichever is less.

Does the owner have to live on the property?

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

Can a manufactured home be an ADU in Seminole County?

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

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