If you’ve been dreaming about adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to your property, you’re not alone! ADUs have quickly become one of the smartest and most flexible ways to make the most of your space, whether it’s for rental income, a guest house, or a cozy spot for aging parents. Here in St. Pete, we’re fortunate to live in a city that welcomes ADUs in many neighborhoods – but before you start planning your tiny home, it’s important to know if your property qualifies.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the best neighborhoods in St. Petersburg for ADUs, and provide some quick tips to help you determine if your home is ADU-ready. Let’s get started!
What is an ADU?
An ADU, or Accessory Dwelling Unit, is a secondary, smaller living unit located on the same lot as your main home. It’s most often a detached unit like a tiny house in your backyard or a converted standalone garage. ADUs are great for their versatility, giving you the option to create additional space for family, or to generate extra income by renting it out.
Best Neighborhoods in St. Pete for ADUs
Now that you have an idea of whether your property is ADU-friendly, let’s take a look at some of the best neighborhoods around St. Pete for building an ADU.
1. Old Northeast
This historic neighborhood is one of the most desirable areas in St. Pete, known for its classic homes and tree-lined streets. Old Northeast falls under NT zoning, which means many homes here are eligible for ADUs. With its proximity to downtown and large lot sizes, this neighborhood is ideal if you’re looking to add an ADU for rental income or a guest house. Plus, the walkability and charm of Old Northeast make it a great place to attract long-term tenants.
2. Kenwood
Historic Kenwood, with its artsy vibe and vibrant community, is another prime spot for ADUs. The area is zoned NT, making it relatively straightforward to get approval for an ADU here. Many homes in Kenwood are built on spacious lots, perfect for adding a small rental or a studio space. The neighborhood’s close proximity to the Grand Central District makes it a great choice for those looking to rent out their ADU or use it as a creative workspace.
3. Crescent Heights
For homeowners who crave a balance between suburban peace and urban convenience, Crescent Heights is a fantastic option. The neighborhood’s NS zoning allows for ADUs, and many properties here meet the minimum lot size requirements. Crescent Heights is just minutes from downtown, making it a great spot for a rental unit, in-law suite, or even an office space. The quiet streets and strong sense of community make it an appealing place to add an ADU.
4. Euclid-St. Paul’s
With its historic charm, mature trees, and family-friendly atmosphere, Euclid-St. Paul’s is a standout neighborhood for building an ADU. The NT zoning in this area means that many homes qualify for ADUs, especially those on larger lots. The neighborhood’s proximity to schools, parks, and downtown make it a solid choice for homeowners looking to house extended family or generate some extra income through a rental.
5. Shore Acres
For those who love waterfront living, Shore Acres is a neighborhood that combines beautiful views with ADU potential. While much of Shore Acres is zoned NS and allows for ADUs, it’s essential to check flood zone restrictions, which may impact certain properties. Still, the appeal of a waterfront ADU, whether as a guest house or rental, is undeniable.
6. Historic Roser Park
Roser Park’s historic beauty, combined with its hilly streets and close proximity to downtown, make it a hidden gem for ADU construction. The neighborhood is zoned NT, allowing for ADUs on many of its properties. Its location near hospitals and downtown makes it a great choice if you’re looking to build an ADU for leisure and comfort.
How to Know if Your Property Qualifies for an ADU
Before you get excited about building your ADU, it’s important to know if your property is ADU ready and meets the city’s guidelines. Here’s a checklist to help you figure out if your home is eligible:
- Check Your Zoning: In St. Pete, ADUs are allowed in specific zoning districts, including NT (Neighborhood Traditional), NT-2, and NS (Neighborhood Suburban). You can check your property’s zoning by using the City of St. Petersburg’s online zoning map or by contacting the zoning office directly.
- Lot Size: For most ADU-friendly zones, your property needs to be at least 5,800 square feet. This ensures that there’s enough space for both your primary home and the ADU.
- Owner Occupancy: One of the requirements for building an ADU is that the homeowner must live on the property. Whether you live in the main house or the ADU, it’s essential that one of the units is your primary residence. This helps maintain the community feel of our neighborhoods.
- ADU Size Limits: The size of your ADU is regulated, too. In most cases, it can be no larger than 750 square feet or 40% of the size of the main house—whichever is smaller.
- Parking Requirements: Depending on your neighborhood, you may be required to provide an additional off-street parking space for the ADU. Some areas are more lenient than others, but it’s always a good idea to check your specific parking requirements.
If you check all these boxes, your property is likely eligible for an ADU. Now, let’s look at the neighborhoods where ADUs really shine.
Transform Your Property with an ADU – We’re Here to Help
Building an ADU in St. Pete is a smart investment that not only adds value to your property but also offers flexibility and potential income. With a range of neighborhoods like Old Northeast, Kenwood, Crescent Heights, and Shore Acres, you have plenty of options to find the perfect spot for your ADU.
At CASK Construction, we specialize in building custom ADUs tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking for extra space for family or a rental opportunity, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process, from zoning to final construction. Reach out to us today and let’s bring your ADU vision to life!
