ADU rules in Sarasota

An ADU may be created by constructing a detached accessory dwelling unit on a zoning lot with an existing detached or attached single-family dwelling, or by building a new dwelling with a detached ADU. Detached ADUs are capped at 24 feet in height and must match the character of the principal dwelling as closely as reasonably possible. Table VI-202 lists accessory dwelling units as a permitted structure type in RSF-E, RSF-1, RSF-2, RSF-3, RSF-4, RSM-9, and RTD-9.

ADUs may be created by converting existing living area, attic, or garage; by adding floor area to an existing single-family dwelling; or by constructing a new dwelling with an internal ADU. Additions must match the principal dwelling in exterior finish, roof pitch, trim, windows, and eaves, and may not have a separate entrance on the front facade.

The size of the accessory dwelling unit may be no more than 650 square feet of floor area, and by definition an ADU is always smaller than the principal dwelling. Detached ADUs have a separate 24-foot height cap. ADUs do not count toward maximum density.

In the RSF-E and RSF-1 through RSF-4 zones, either the principal dwelling or the ADU must be owner-occupied, with owner occupancy determined by homestead status, and the building permit applicant must file an affidavit agreeing to reside in one of the units. As written, these affidavit requirements in subsection (2.1) apply to the five RSF zones; the code states no equivalent for the downtown zones, RSM-9, or RTD-9, where ADUs are also permitted.

No additional parking space is required for an ADU created on a lot with an existing single-family dwelling when at least one abutting street allows on-street parking. One additional space is required when no abutting street allows on-street parking or when the ADU is built at the same time as the house. ADUs in the DTN zone are never required to provide off-street parking.

Accessory dwelling units are listed with a P (permitted use) in Table VI-202 for the single-family zones and in Table VI-1002 for all five downtown zones (DTN, DTNE, DTE, DTC, DTB), subject to the standards of Sec. VII-602(cc). Approval runs through a building permit; the ordinance frames the affidavit requirements around the applicant for a building permit, not a conditional use hearing.

In the RSF-E and RSF-1 through RSF-4 zones, the building permit applicant for a new ADU must file an affidavit stating that if the ADU is rented, it will be rented at an affordable rate to persons with a household income at or below 120 percent AMI. Sec. VII-602(cc) states no minimum lease term.