Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $3,000–$8,000 Total includes professional design, structural building permit, and trade permits; BID fees average $3,000+.
Fee Method Project-based
Apply Online Apply at City of Jacksonville Building Inspection Division →

What's Required in Jacksonville

  • ADUs are permitted on single-family lots but cannot exceed 750 sq ft or 35% of the primary home.
  • New 2026 Florida laws mandate approval of ADU applications within 60 days.
  • Must include independent kitchen (sink, cabinets, countertop) and separate entrance.
  • Minimum size of 150 square feet of living space is required.
  • Historic districts require additional approval from the Historic Preservation Commission.
  • One off-street parking space is required per ADU unit.

How Much Does an ADU Permit Cost in Jacksonville?

Budget $3,000–$8,000 for the Jacksonville permit itself (project-based), issued by the City of Jacksonville Building Inspection Division — but treat that as the entry fee, not the total. ADUs are full dwelling units, so the permit stack usually includes building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical trade permits, plus plan review. One local note: total includes professional design, structural building permit, and trade permits; BID fees average $3,000+. Get an itemized fee estimate from the department before finalizing your budget; the spread between a simple conversion and a new detached build is wide.

ADU Size Limits and Zoning Rules in Jacksonville

Before drawing plans, check the two gates that sink most ADU projects: size and zoning. Size ceilings vary by lot and ADU type (attached, detached, or conversion), so confirm your specific configuration. Other recorded conditions: one off-street parking space is required per ADU unit. Setbacks, height limits, and utility connections layer on top of those rules. The City of Jacksonville Building Inspection Division can confirm what your specific lot allows — worth doing before you pay for architectural drawings rather than after.

How to Get a ADU Permit in Jacksonville

1

Step 1: Zoning Verification

Verify ADU allowance and setback requirements for your specific lot.

2

Step 2: Professional Design

Hire a Florida-licensed architect for full construction documents.

3

Step 3: JAXEPICS Submission

Upload all architectural and structural drawings to the online portal.

4

Step 4: Record NOC

Record the Notice of Commencement at the Duval County Courthouse.

5

Step 5: Construction Inspections

Schedule the full series of building, plumbing, and electrical inspections.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Florida law now mandates the allowance of ADUs in single-family zones.
Permit and design fees typically range from $3,000 to $8,000.
Units are limited to 750 square feet or 35% of the primary home's size.