How to Build an ADU in Fort Lauderdale:
Permits and Costs
Which zones allow an ADU, the 600 sq ft cap, the LauderBuild permit steps, and what it costs to build one in Fort Lauderdale.
To build an ADU in Fort Lauderdale, start with your zoning district. The city allows one accessory dwelling up to 600 sq ft (or 49% of your home, whichever is less) in the RC-15, RM-15, RML, RMM and RMH districts. In RS-8 and RD-15, only servants' quarters are allowed. If your lot qualifies, you design a 1-bedroom or studio unit and permit it through LauderBuild.
ADUs in Fort Lauderdale are governed by ULDR Section 47-19.2. All permits flow through the LauderBuild portal. Both detached and garage-conversion forms are available under the ordinance.
Fort Lauderdale caps ADUs at 600 sq ft under its own zoning ordinance. Florida has no statewide ADU size mandate (see our overview of Florida's ADU laws), so the city's local cap governs — verify current size limits and any updates directly with Development Services.
Key constraints to understand before designing
Fort Lauderdale ADUs are limited to 600 sq ft (or 49% of the primary home, whichever is smaller) and 1 bedroom or an efficiency, and are only allowed in six zoning districts. RS-8 and RD-15 allow only servants' quarters. The ADU code does not address owner occupancy or renting, so confirm both with Fort Lauderdale Development Services before committing to plans.
In This Guide
- 1. Check Your Zoning District (ULDR §47-19.2)
- 2. The 7-Step LauderBuild Permit Process
- 3. Required Documents Checklist
- 4. Permit Fees & Timeline
- 5. Local Programs & Incentives
- 6. Renting Your ADU — Broward County Market
- 7. Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
- 8. Key Contacts & Resources
- 9. Frequently Asked Questions
1. Check Your Zoning District (ULDR §47-19.2)
Reference document: ULDR Section 47-19.2
Fort Lauderdale's ADU rules are codified in its Unified Land Development Regulations at Section 47-19.2. Always reference this section number when communicating with Development Services or your architect. Verify current text at library.municode.com/fl/fort_lauderdale.
ADU Eligibility Requirements
Planning to rent short-term?
Fort Lauderdale does not ban short-term rentals, but any home rented for 30 days or less must hold an annual Vacation Rental registration plus state and county licenses. The ADU code does not say whether an accessory dwelling can be registered on its own, so confirm with the city's Vacation Rental Program before you count on Airbnb income.
📞 Confirm Parcel Eligibility Before Designing
Historic overlays, flood zones, and parcel-specific constraints can affect ADU eligibility beyond the baseline ULDR rules. Contact Fort Lauderdale Development Services before hiring an architect to confirm your parcel's specific eligibility and setback requirements.
Which Fort Lauderdale Zoning Districts Allow an ADU?
ULDR §47-19.2.A allows one accessory dwelling per single-family lot in six districts. The most common single-family district, RS-8, is not one of them.
| Zone | Accessory dwelling allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| RC-15 | Yes | Minimum parcel 5,808 sq ft |
| RM-15 | Yes | Minimum parcel 5,808 sq ft |
| RML-25 | Yes | Confirm parcel minimum with the city |
| RMM-25 | Yes | Confirm parcel minimum with the city |
| RMH-25 | Yes | Confirm parcel minimum with the city |
| RMH-60 | Yes | Confirm parcel minimum with the city |
| RS-8 | No | Servants' quarters for employed persons only |
| RD-15 | No | Servants' quarters for employed persons only |
Source: City of Fort Lauderdale ULDR §47-19.2.A. Size cap: 600 sq ft or 49% of the primary home, whichever is less. Setbacks, lot coverage and height vary by district, so confirm them with Development Services for your parcel.
Two ways to confirm what applies to your lot
The code doesn't answer every question, like occupancy or short-term rentals. You can ask the city yourself for free, or have us do the parcel research and planning-office confirmation for you.
Free · do it yourself
Call Fort Lauderdale Development Services to confirm your zoning district, occupancy and rental rules.
$99 · we research it for you
We research your parcel and confirm your zoning district and ADU rules with the planning office, in a written summary. It is not a permit, legal advice, a binding city determination, or guaranteed approval.
Get Planning Verification ($99)2. The 7-Step LauderBuild Permit Process
All Fort Lauderdale building permits are submitted through the LauderBuild portal. Fort Lauderdale is in Broward County's High Velocity Hurricane Zone — all construction must meet HVHZ wind load and impact-resistance requirements.
Zoning Confirmation — Confirm Parcel Eligibility
Before designing, confirm your parcel's zoning district. Accessory dwellings are allowed in RC-15, RM-15, RML-25, RMM-25, RMH-25 and RMH-60; RS-8 and RD-15 allow only servants' quarters. Also check overlays (historic, flood zone) and HOA/deed restrictions, and contact Fort Lauderdale Development Services for pre-application guidance specific to your address.
Design Within 600 Sq Ft / 49% / 1-Bed Limits
Your ADU cannot exceed 600 sq ft OR 49% of the primary home's floor area (whichever is more restrictive), and is limited to 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom (or a studio/efficiency layout). Work with your architect to confirm the 49% calculation against your primary home's existing square footage.
Hire a Florida-Licensed Architect
Fort Lauderdale does not offer free pre-approved ADU plans. Engage a Florida-licensed architect familiar with ULDR Section 47-19.2, Broward County HVHZ construction requirements, and Fort Lauderdale's permitting process. Budget $3,000–$8,000+ for design fees.
Submit Permit Application via LauderBuild
Submit your building permit application through the LauderBuild portal. Required documents include: completed application, current property survey, site plan with setback dimensions, floor plans and elevations (all four sides), structural drawings, energy compliance calculations (RESCHECK), and contractor license and insurance.
Trade Permits — Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical
Separate trade permits are required for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. These are typically pulled by licensed subcontractors. Confirm with LauderBuild whether trade permits are submitted with the main application or separately after the building permit is issued.
Construction and Inspections
Build per approved plans. Schedule all required inspections via LauderBuild: footings/foundation, framing, rough electrical/plumbing/mechanical, insulation, final. All construction must comply with Florida Building Code HVHZ requirements — impact-rated windows, doors, and roof systems are standard in Broward County.
Certificate of Occupancy
After passing final inspection, obtain the Certificate of Occupancy (CO). If you plan to rent the ADU, confirm with the city which registrations apply before listing it. Short-term rentals of 30 days or less need the annual Vacation Rental registration.
3. Required Documents Checklist
Standard documents for a Fort Lauderdale ADU permit via LauderBuild:
4. Permit Fees & Timeline
Estimated Fees
| Fee Type | Amount / Contact |
|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee | Based on construction valuation — contact Fort Lauderdale Development Services via LauderBuild |
| Plan Review Fee | Assessed alongside permit fee at submission |
| Zoning / Planning Review | Included in the building permit process |
| Architect / Designer Fee | $3,000–$8,000+ — no free pre-approved plans program |
| Broward County Impact Fees ⚠️ | Budget $3,000–$8,000+ (transportation, school, parks, fire) — contact Broward County Development Services for project-specific estimate |
| Utility Connection Fees | Contact Broward County Water and Wastewater Services and FPL for estimates |
| Re-Inspection Fee | Charged for failed inspections — confirm current amount with Development Services |
Estimated Timeline
| Phase | Duration |
|---|---|
| Zoning verification and pre-application | 1–2 weeks |
| Survey and property research | 1–2 weeks |
| Architectural design | 4–10 weeks (Florida-licensed professional required) |
| Permit application preparation | 1–2 weeks |
| City plan review | 4–10 weeks (verify current queue with LauderBuild) |
| Review comment responses | 1–4 weeks per round |
| Construction | 3–6 months depending on scope |
| Final inspection and CO | 1–2 weeks |
| Total — Typical path | 7–12 months |
5. Local Programs & Incentives
No Free Plans Program
Unlike Gainesville, Fort Lauderdale does not offer free pre-approved ADU plan sets. Budget $3,000–$8,000+ for a Florida-licensed architect to prepare custom construction drawings.
Florida Private Provider Program
Florida homeowners may hire a state-approved Private Provider firm to conduct plan review and inspections independently of the city's queue. This can reduce review timelines by several weeks. Find registered Private Providers at floridabuilding.org.
Broward County SHIP Program
The State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) program may have funds available for ADU construction or rehabilitation for low-to-moderate income homeowners. Contact Broward County Community Development at (954) 357-5321.
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit
30% federal tax credit (through 2032) for solar panels and battery storage installed on the ADU. Florida has 0% state sales tax on solar equipment and a property tax exemption for residential solar installations.
FPL Rebates
Florida Power & Light offers rebates for qualifying energy-efficient appliances, HVAC systems, and insulation — applicable when outfitting your ADU. See fpl.com/rebates for current programs.
Historic District Review (if applicable)
Properties in Fort Lauderdale historic districts may require additional review. Contact Development Services to determine if your parcel is within a historic overlay.
6. Renting Your ADU — Broward County Market
Fort Lauderdale's rental market is driven by its proximity to Miami, the marine and yachting industry, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Port Everglades, financial services, and healthcare employment. Long-term ADU demand is strong and relatively stable.
Long-Term Rental Market
| Studio/Efficiency ADU Estimate | $1,300–$1,600/month (2025–2026 market data) |
| 1-Bedroom ADU Estimate | $1,500–$2,000/month |
| Key Demand Drivers | Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Port Everglades, Broward Health, Nova Southeastern University, financial services, yachting/marine industry, proximity to Miami |
| Vacancy Risk | Moderate to low — Broward County market is active year-round; lower vacancy than seasonal tourist markets |
| Seasonal Pattern | Less seasonal than Palm Beach or Treasure Coast markets; airport and healthcare employment provide year-round anchor demand |
| Premium Zones | Las Olas, Victoria Park, Rio Vista, downtown Fort Lauderdale, and waterfront corridors command higher rents |
Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb / VRBO)
Vacation Rental registration required
Fort Lauderdale allows homes to be rented for 30 days or less only with an annual Vacation Rental registration (certificates expire September 30) plus state and county licenses. Operating without a valid certificate carries daily fines. The ADU code does not say whether an accessory dwelling can be registered on its own, so confirm with the city's Vacation Rental Program before planning Airbnb or VRBO income.
Long-Term Rental Logistics
7. Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
Exceeding the 49% floor area rule
The 600 sq ft cap only applies if 49% of your primary home's area is larger. If your primary home is 1,100 sq ft, 49% = 539 sq ft — your ADU is capped at 539 sq ft, not 600. Have your architect calculate this before finalizing plans.
Assuming Airbnb income without checking registration
Rentals of 30 days or less need the city's annual Vacation Rental registration, and the ADU code does not say whether an accessory dwelling can be registered on its own. Confirm with the city before you design or buy around short-term rental income.
Designing for a lot in RS-8 or RD-15
RS-8 and RD-15 allow only servants' quarters for employed persons, not a general accessory dwelling. Confirm your district before you pay for plans.
Skipping HOA / deed restriction review
City permits do not override private covenants. Review your CC&Rs before hiring an architect — some HOAs in Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods prohibit detached accessory structures entirely.
Underestimating HVHZ construction costs
Broward County is in Florida's High Velocity Hurricane Zone. Impact-rated windows, doors, and roof systems are required — these add $10,000–$30,000+ compared to standard construction. Factor this in early.
Underestimating Broward County impact fees
Broward County assesses impact fees on new residential units. Budget $3,000–$8,000+ and get a written estimate from Broward County Development Services before finalizing your construction budget.
8. Key Contacts & Resources
Fort Lauderdale Development Services
fortlauderdale.gov/departments/sustainable-developmentLauderBuild Permit Portal
fortlauderdale.gov/lauderbuildFort Lauderdale ULDR (Municode)
library.municode.com/fl/fort_lauderdaleBroward County Property Appraiser
bcpa.netBroward County Development Services
broward.org/developmentBroward County Water & Wastewater
broward.org/waterBroward County Clerk (NOC recording)
browardclerk.orgBroward County SHIP Program
(954) 357-5321
Florida Building Code / Private Providers
floridabuilding.orgFL DBPR (Contractor License Verification)
myfloridalicense.comFlorida Power & Light
(800) 226-3545 | fpl.comFEMA Flood Map
msc.fema.gov9. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum ADU size in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale caps ADUs at 600 sq ft AND 49% of the primary home's floor area — whichever is more restrictive. The unit is limited to 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom (or studio layout). If your primary home is 1,100 sq ft, the 49% cap (539 sq ft) is more restrictive than the 600 sq ft cap. Governed by ULDR Section 47-19.2.
Is owner occupancy required for a Fort Lauderdale ADU?
ULDR §47-19.2 does not state an owner-occupancy requirement. Ask Fort Lauderdale Development Services, or we can confirm it for you with our $99 planning verification.
Can I use my Fort Lauderdale ADU for Airbnb or short-term rentals?
The ADU section (ULDR §47-19.2) does not address short-term rentals. Fort Lauderdale allows rentals of 30 days or less in homes only with an annual Vacation Rental registration, plus state and county licenses. Ask the city's Vacation Rental Program whether an ADU can be registered, or we can confirm it for you with our $99 planning verification.
Which zoning districts allow an ADU in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale allows one accessory dwelling per single-family lot in the RC-15, RM-15, RML-25, RMM-25, RMH-25 and RMH-60 districts. In RS-8 and RD-15, only servants' quarters for employed persons are allowed (ULDR §47-19.2.A).
What is ULDR Section 47-19.2?
ULDR Section 47-19.2 is the section of Fort Lauderdale's Unified Land Development Regulations that governs Accessory Dwelling Units. It sets the districts where an accessory dwelling is allowed, the 600 sq ft / 49% size cap, and the 1-bedroom or efficiency limit. Always reference this section number when working with city staff or your architect.
How do I submit an ADU permit in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale ADU permits are submitted through the LauderBuild online portal. You need: a completed permit application, current property survey, site plan, construction drawings sealed by a Florida-licensed architect or engineer, and contractor license. Contact Fort Lauderdale Development Services for current application requirements.
How much rental income can I earn from a Fort Lauderdale ADU?
Long-term 1-bedroom ADU rents in Fort Lauderdale and Broward County typically run $1,500–$2,000/month (2025–2026 data). Demand is driven by proximity to Miami, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport, Port Everglades, healthcare, and the marine/yachting industry. Short-term rentals require the city's annual Vacation Rental registration.
Important Disclaimers
- This guide is for informational purposes only. Fort Lauderdale's ULDR, fee schedules, and ADU standards can change. Always verify current requirements directly with Fort Lauderdale Development Services before making financial commitments.
- The 49% of primary floor area calculation must be verified with your specific primary home's square footage — it may be more restrictive than the 600 sq ft hard cap.
- Rentals of 30 days or less in Fort Lauderdale require the city's annual Vacation Rental registration. Confirm whether an ADU can be registered before planning short-term rental income.
- HOA covenants are independent of government permits — review CC&Rs before proceeding.
- Broward County impact fees are assessed separately from city permits — budget accordingly.
- This guide does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Prepared March 2026 | Updated October 2026.
Ready to Check Your Fort Lauderdale Property?
Enter your address for a free zoning eligibility check — see your lot's ADU eligibility, applicable ULDR rules, and setback requirements specific to your parcel.
Also see: Florida ADU Laws 2025 · ADU Costs in Florida · Broward County ADU Rules