ADU Rules & Zoning in Fort Myers, Florida (2026)
What ADU can you build in your Fort Myers backyard?
Instantly check eligibility for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), like Guest Houses, Garage Conversions, and In-Law Suites.
Fort Myers 2026 ADU Requirements Snapshot
Fort Myers ADU rules under Florida SB-48. Lee County impact fees apply. Verify current requirements with city planning post-Hurricane Ian recovery.
What this means for your lot
- Use the address checker first to verify parcel-specific zoning.
- Confirm setbacks and lot geometry before spending on plans.
- Check short-term rental rules carefully — they vary significantly by city.
Key gotchas
- Post-Hurricane Ian construction demand in Lee County means contractor quotes and timelines require extra verification
- Lee County impact fees can be substantial — get current fee schedule before finalizing project budget
- Some Fort Myers neighborhoods have deed restrictions from historical platting — check title before planning
Building Limits
- Max Size:1000 sq ft
- Setbacks:5ft side / 10ft rear
- Detached Allowed?Yes
- Max Height:25 ft
- Build Cost Est.:$90,000–$185,000
Rental Rules
No Owner-Occupancy Requirement: Both units can be rented to tenants simultaneously.
Short-Term Rentals: Not prohibited at the city level. State DBPR license required.
Estimated Monthly Income
$1,100–$1,800/month
Based on 2025–2026 Fort Myers market data
Key ADU Restrictions in Fort Myers
- Lee County impact fees have increased significantly following Hurricane Ian recovery — verify current fee schedule before budgeting
- Post-Ian contractor availability in Lee County remains constrained — ADU construction timelines may be longer than in other Florida markets
- Flood zone compliance required for parcels in FEMA flood zones — check your parcel's designation before designing
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Fort Myers
- Post-Hurricane Ian construction demand in Lee County means contractor quotes and timelines require extra verification
- Lee County impact fees can be substantial — get current fee schedule before finalizing project budget
- Some Fort Myers neighborhoods have deed restrictions from historical platting — check title before planning
Eligible Zones in Fort Myers
Fort Myers ADU — Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Fort Myers, Florida?
ADUs permitted on eligible single-family residential parcels in RS zones under Florida SB-48 (2026).
What is the maximum ADU size in Fort Myers?
Up to 1,000 sq ft under SB-48 statewide baseline.
Do I need to be an owner-occupant to build an ADU in Fort Myers?
Fort Myers does not require owner-occupancy. Both the primary home and ADU can be rented to tenants simultaneously.
Can I use my Fort Myers ADU as an Airbnb?
Fort Myers does not prohibit short-term rentals at the city level. You must obtain a Florida DBPR Vacation Rental Dwelling license.
How do I get an ADU permit in Fort Myers?
Building permit through Fort Myers Building Services. Full inspection process.
Fort Myers Planning Department
Nearby Cities — ADU Rules
Get your free Fort Myers ADU Guide
Your personal zoning report + complete Fort Myers ADU requirements — delivered free to your email in 60 seconds.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime. Used by 10,000+ Florida homeowners.
This page provides general information based on current ordinances and publicly available data as of March 2026. Zoning rules change — verify all requirements with your local planning department before making financial commitments.