Florida Senate Advances Law Allowing ADUs in All Residential Zones

The Florida Senate approved a bill that would allow accessory dwelling units in single-family neighborhoods, reports Blake Devine for Fox 13 Tampa Bay. “Supporters say the measure could help address Florida’s affordable housing shortage by creating smaller, lower-cost rental options.” The bill still requires passage by the state House before it heads to the governor’s desk. The “granny Flat Bill,” SB 48, won unanimous approval in the State Senate. If approved in the House, it could take effect as early as July 1. 

According to an article in The Dayton Beach News-Journal, “The new law would require counties and municipalities to adopt an ordinance by Dec. 1, 2026, to allow ADUs without requiring a public hearing; a variance, conditional use permit, or special exception; or other discretionary action other than a determination that a site plan conforms with applicable zoning regulations, in any area zoned for single-family residential use.” Local governments would only be allowed to prohibit the rental of ADUs for periods of under one month.