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Zoning Guide

ADU Rules in Ocean View, Delaware

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ADU Rules in Ocean View, Delaware

Ocean View is a small incorporated town in Sussex County near Bethany Beach, part of Delaware's popular beach resort corridor. It has its own town government and zoning authority. Given its coastal location, flood zone and Delaware Coastal Management Program requirements are important considerations.

Permitted ADU Types

  • Detached ADU: Standalone structure on the residential lot
  • Attached ADU: Addition with own entrance and kitchen
  • Interior Conversion: Converting existing interior space

Size Limits

ADU Type Maximum Size
Detached ADU 800 sq ft or 40% of primary dwelling
Attached ADU 40% of primary dwelling floor area
Interior Conversion Existing footprint

Setbacks

Per Ocean View zoning ordinance:

  • Front: Per base zone standard
  • Side: 5 feet minimum
  • Rear: 15 feet minimum

Height

  • Detached ADU: Maximum 15 feet
  • Cannot exceed height of primary dwelling

Coastal and Flood Zone Considerations

Ocean View is in coastal Sussex County near the Atlantic Ocean:

  • Many properties may be in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA)
  • Elevated foundation requirements may apply in flood zones
  • Delaware Coastal Management Program may apply
  • Verify flood zone status at FEMA's Flood Map Service Center before planning

Short-Term Rentals

Ocean View is near popular beach destinations. Contact the Town for current short-term rental policies before planning an ADU for rental use.

Parking

One off-street parking space required per ADU.

Permit Process

  1. Verify flood zone: Check FEMA flood map
  2. Contact Town of Ocean View: Verify current ADU standards
  3. Submit plans: Site plan and architectural drawings
  4. Building permit: Issued by Town of Ocean View
  5. Inspections and CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

Town of Ocean View 201 Central Avenue, Ocean View, DE 19970 Phone: (302) 539-9797 Website: oceanviewde.com

Disclaimer: Verify current requirements with the Town of Ocean View, including flood zone and coastal management requirements, before starting any project.

More about Ocean View Zoning

Sources

  1. Town of Ocean View Code of Ordinances·library.municode.com·Accessed 2026-04-07·Direct link
  2. Town of Ocean View, Delaware·oceanviewde.com·Accessed 2026-04-07·Direct link

FAQ

Are ADUs allowed in Ocean View, Delaware?
Yes. Ocean View is a small incorporated town in Sussex County near Bethany Beach. ADUs are permitted in residential zones. Delaware has no statewide ADU preemption law.
What coastal regulations affect ADUs in Ocean View?
Ocean View is in coastal Sussex County. Many properties may be in FEMA flood zones and subject to Delaware's Coastal Management Program. Flood zone compliance is essential before planning.
Can I rent an ADU short-term in Ocean View?
Ocean View is near beach resort areas. Contact the Town of Ocean View for current short-term rental regulations, as these rules vary and may affect ADU use.