Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), also known as backyard cottages, garage apartments, or in-law suites, are becoming increasingly popular in St. Petersburg. They provide flexible housing options for family members, rental income, or even a dedicated home office. But before breaking ground, it’s important to understand the city’s rules and requirements for building an ADU.
At CASK Construction, we help homeowners navigate these regulations and bring their vision to life. Here’s what you need to know.
What is an ADU?
An ADU is a secondary, smaller residence built on the same property as a primary single-family home. In St. Pete, ADUs can be detached (like a small cottage in the backyard) or attached (like a converted garage or basement apartment).
Zoning & Eligibility
Not every property qualifies for an ADU. Here are the key eligibility requirements:
- Zoning: ADUs are allowed in most single-family residential zones in St. Petersburg.
- Lot Size & Setbacks: The property must have enough space to accommodate the unit while meeting setback requirements from property lines.
Size & Design Standards
The City of St. Petersburg places limits on the size and design of ADUs:
- Maximum Size: ADUs can be up to 800 square feet or 67% of the main home’s size (whichever is smaller).
- Height Restrictions: Usually limited to two stories.
- Design Compatibility: The ADU must generally complement the look of the primary home, per city zoning requirements.
Parking Requirements
At minimum one dedicated parking space is typically required for the ADU. ADU garage parking can be applied towards the parking requirements with typically one additional spot required depending on the number of bedrooms in the main home.
Utility & Building Codes
ADUs must comply with Florida Building Code and city utility requirements. This includes:
- Proper water, sewer, and electric hookups
- Impact fees in some cases
- Adherence to safety and accessibility standards
Why Build an ADU?
ADUs offer several benefits for homeowners:
- Rental Income: Create a long-term or short-term rental to offset mortgage costs.
- Family Flexibility: Perfect for aging parents, college kids, or visiting guests.
- Property Value: Adds livable square footage and long-term value.
How CASK Construction Can Help
Building an ADU requires navigating city regulations, permits, and construction challenges. At CASK, we guide you through the process from design to completion with a dedicated project manager to support your entire project journey. We’ll ensure your ADU is compliant, functional, and beautiful.
Whether you’re looking to create a rental property or extra living space, our team has the expertise to make it happen.
Ready to explore adding an ADU to your St. Pete property?
Contact CASK Construction today for a consultation and let’s start planning your project.
