Zoning & Size Limits
| Requirement | Jacksonville, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|
| Allowed Zones | Select residential districts | Designated ADU-eligible areas only (Seminole Heights, Tampa |
| Max Size (Detached) | 25% of primary residence or 750 sq ft (whichever is smaller) | 950 sq ft (larger setbacks apply when the ADU exceeds 15% of lot size) |
| Max Size (Attached) | 25% of primary residence or 750 sq ft (whichever is smaller) | 950 sq ft - the 600 sq ft figure often cited is the Extended Family Residence cap, a separate family-only category |
| Max Height | Must not exceed height of primary residence | 22.5-35 ft (varies by overlay district; must not e |
| Parking Required | 1 space | 1 space per unit |
| Owner Occupancy | Required — owner must occupy either the primary residence or | Required - the owner must reside on the property |
Setback Requirements
| Setback | Jacksonville, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|
| Rear Setback | 20 feet | 3 ft (20 ft when the ADU exceeds 15% of lot size) |
| Side Setback | 5 feet | 3 ft interior (7 ft when the ADU exceeds 15% of lot size) |
| Front Setback | 25 feet | 60 ft from the street; at least 10 ft (RS-75/100/1 |
Permits & Timeline
| Detail | Jacksonville, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|
| Permit Timeline | 80-110 days | 75-100 days |
| Permit Fees | $3,200-$5,000 | $3,500-$5,500 |
| Impact Fees | $1,300-$2,000 | $1,400-$2,200 |
| Pre-Approved Plans | Not available | Not available |
Construction Costs
| Cost | Jacksonville, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|
| Avg Build Cost | $125,000-$245,000 | $140,000-$280,000 |
| Cost Per Sq Ft | $155-$305 | $180-$350 |
| Garage Conversion | $60,000-$145,000 | $70,000-$160,000 |
| Prefab ADU | $90,000-$210,000 | $100,000-$230,000 |
Rental Income Potential
| Rental | Jacksonville, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|
| 1BR Avg Rent | $1,100-$1,600/mo | $1,300-$1,850/mo |
| 2BR Avg Rent | $1,400-$2,000/mo | $1,650-$2,400/mo |
| Short-Term Rentals | Varies by district | Restricted in most zones |
| Est. ROI | 6-8% annual return | 6-8% annual return |
Which City Is Better for ADUs?
Jacksonville scores 5/10 while Tampa scores 3/10 on our ADU-friendliness index.
Jacksonville edges ahead overall. Both cities offer viable ADU development opportunities — the best choice depends on your specific property, budget, and goals.
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