Zoning Guide

ADU Rules in Tallahassee, Florida

Last updated: Verified:

Florida has no enacted statewide ADU mandate. Fla. Stat. §163.31771 is permissive (may adopt), not mandatory. HB 1343 (2023) is an agricultural-employee-housing bill that died in committee. ADU rules are set locally.

Florida has no enacted statewide ADU mandate. Fla. Stat. §163.31771 is permissive (may adopt), not mandatory. HB 1343 (2023) is an agricultural-employee-housing bill that died in committee. ADU rules are set locally.

Florida has no enacted statewide ADU mandate. Fla. Stat. §163.31771 is permissive (may adopt), not mandatory. HB 1343 (2023) is an agricultural-employee-housing bill that died in committee. ADU rules are set locally.

Permitted ADU Types

  • Detached ADU: Standalone structure in rear yard
  • Attached ADU: Addition with own entrance and kitchen
  • Garage Conversion: Converting existing garage
  • Interior Conversion: Converting existing space

Size Limits

ADU Type Maximum Size
Detached ADU 1,000 sq ft or 50% of primary dwelling
Attached ADU 50% of primary dwelling floor area
Garage Conversion Existing footprint

Setbacks

Per Tallahassee Land Development Code:

  • Front: Per base zone
  • Side: 5 feet minimum
  • Rear: 5–10 feet minimum

Height

  • Detached ADU: Maximum 25 feet or per zone standard

Tree Canopy Requirements

Tallahassee has exceptional urban tree canopy. Local regulations protect heritage trees, and ADU construction may require tree surveys and protection plans.

Rental Housing Market

Strong university-driven rental demand from FSU and FAMU students makes ADUs attractive income properties.

Permit Process

  1. Check zoning: Verify via Tallahassee's online zoning map
  2. Tree survey: Check for protected trees in ADU footprint area
  3. Submit plans: City of Tallahassee Building Department
  4. Building permit: Florida Building Code applies
  5. Inspections and CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

City of Tallahassee Building Department 435 North Macomb Street, Tallahassee, FL 32301 Phone: (850) 891-6900 Website: talgov.com/building

Disclaimer: Verify current Tallahassee Land Development Code requirements, including tree protection rules, before starting any project.

More about Tallahassee Zoning

Sources

  1. City of Tallahassee Land Development Code·library.municode.com·Accessed 2026-09-20·Direct link
  2. City of Tallahassee 2025-2028 Local Housing Assistance Plan·talgov.com·Accessed 2026-09-20·Direct link
  3. City of Tallahassee Growth Management·talgov.com·Accessed 2026-09-20·Direct link

FAQ

Are ADUs allowed in Tallahassee, Florida?
Yes. The City's current housing plan states that attached ADUs and detached garage dwelling-unit conversions are allowed on all single-family residential parcels under Land Development Code §10-412. Confirm parcel-specific development standards with Growth Management before design or permitting.
Does Florida law require Tallahassee to allow ADUs?
Florida Statutes §163.31771 is an enabling provision rather than a statewide mandate. Tallahassee's ADU allowance comes from the City's own Land Development Code and local housing policy.