A New Path to Rental Income: Florida Expands Backyard Housing
Florida lawmakers have taken a major step toward tackling the state’s housing affordability challenge. The Florida Senate has unanimously approved new legislation that would require local governments to allow Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in areas zoned for single-family homes across the state.
ADUs—often referred to as granny flats, backyard cottages, guest houses, or mother-in-law suites—are smaller secondary living units that can be attached to or detached from a primary residence. This bill opens the door for homeowners to legally add these units in many communities where they are currently restricted or prohibited.
What the Florida ADU Bill Means for Homeowners
If the bill becomes law, Florida homeowners would gain new flexibility to build ADUs on their property without navigating excessive red tape. The legislation removes requirements for special zoning variances or public hearings, provided the ADU meets existing building and zoning standards.
Local governments would still be able to regulate construction details, safety requirements, and design standards—but they could no longer ban ADUs outright in single-family residential zones.
From a practical standpoint, this creates new opportunities for:
- Multigenerational living
- Long-term rental income
- Housing for aging parents or adult children
- Workforce housing close to employment centers
Why Lawmakers Support Backyard Housing
The bill’s sponsor, Don Gaetz, emphasized that ADUs are a cost-effective way to increase housing supply without large-scale developments or changes to neighborhood character. These units are generally less expensive to build, rent, and maintain—and they naturally fit within existing communities.
Some Florida areas, such as Orange County, already allow ADUs and have seen homeowners benefit from increased property value and flexible housing options.
Key Rules and Restrictions to Know
While the bill expands access to ADUs, it includes important guardrails:
- Rentals may be limited to leases longer than 30 days, restricting short-term vacation rentals
- Parking requirements cannot be excessively increased solely because an ADU is added
- Local governments can enforce building codes and reasonable design standards
These measures are intended to balance housing growth with neighborhood stability.
What Happens Next?
Although the Senate’s unanimous vote is a strong signal of support, the bill must still pass the Florida House of Representatives before becoming law. Lawmakers are expected to continue refining the language, especially around rental rules and local enforcement.
Why This Matters for Florida Real Estate
For Florida homeowners, buyers, investors, and real estate professionals, this legislation could reshape the single-family housing landscape. ADUs have the potential to:
- Increase property value
- Improve affordability for renters
- Provide flexible income options for homeowners
- Expand housing supply without sprawl
As a Florida real estate agent, I’m closely watching how this bill progresses and what it could mean for homeowners across the state—especially those looking to maximize the value and functionality of their property.
Housing in Florida is evolving, and backyard housing may soon play a much bigger role in how communities grow.