ADU Rules & Zoning in Sarasota, Florida (2026)

Updated with 2026 Florida SB-48 Codes

What ADU can you build in your Sarasota backyard?

Instantly check eligibility for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), like Guest Houses, Garage Conversions, and In-Law Suites.

100% Private Feasibility Check • Official County Zoning Data
Enter your address above for a parcel-specific zoning check.
Florida SB-48 (2026 update): Under Florida's statewide ADU law, most single-family homeowners have the right to build an ADU by-right. Local municipalities cannot impose size limits below 1,000 sq ft or require owner-occupancy as a condition of building. If you believe a local denial violates SB-48, consult a Florida land-use attorney.

Building Limits

  • Max Size:500 sq ft
  • Setbacks:3ft side / 10ft rear
  • Detached Allowed?Yes
  • Max Height:35 ft
  • Build Cost Est.:$80,000–$200,000 typical
  • Min Rental Period:7 days

Rental Rules

Owner-Occupancy Required: You must live in either the primary home or the ADU.

Short-Term Rentals: Not prohibited at the city level. State DBPR license required.

Estimated Monthly Income

$1,400–$2,500/month

Based on 2025–2026 Sarasota market data

Key ADU Restrictions in Sarasota

  • Sarasota City vs County have completely different rules — City allows STR (7-day min), County bans STR under 30 days
  • Sarasota County caps ADUs at 500 sq ft with owner-occupancy required
  • City requires Vacation Rental Certificate of Registration for STR use (7-day minimum)

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Sarasota

  • Not confirming jurisdiction — City of Sarasota and Sarasota County have entirely separate ADU and STR rules
  • County STR ban is active — 30-day minimum in all single-family zones in unincorporated Sarasota County
  • City has no hard ADU size cap stated in current code — confirm maximum with City Planning before designing

Eligible Zones in Sarasota

City: all residentialCounty: RSF, RE zones

Sarasota ADU — Frequently Asked Questions

Can I build an ADU in Sarasota, Florida?

ADUs are generally permitted in eligible residential zones in Sarasota under Florida SB-48. Use our address checker to confirm your parcel eligibility.

What is the maximum ADU size in Sarasota?

The maximum ADU size in Sarasota is 800 sq ft.

Do I need to be an owner-occupant to build an ADU in Sarasota?

Sarasota requires owner-occupancy — you must live in either the primary home or the ADU.

Can I use my Sarasota ADU as an Airbnb?

Sarasota 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 Sarasota?

Contact the Sarasota Building or Planning Department to begin the ADU permit process.

Nearby Cities — ADU Rules

TampaView ADU Rules →Fort MyersView ADU Rules →BradentonView ADU Rules →

Get your free Sarasota ADU Guide

Your personal zoning report + complete Sarasota 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.