Permit Required? Always Required
Typical Fee Range $2,000–$10,000+ Impact fees, utility connection fees may apply
Fee Method Valuation-based on construction cost
Apply Online Apply at City of Miami Building Dept. →

What's Required in Miami

  • ADUs are allowed on properties in T3, T4, T5, and T6 transect zones under Miami 21
  • Maximum ADU size: typically 50% of primary structure or 750 sq ft, whichever is less
  • Separate utility connections (water, sewer) required for detached ADUs
  • Florida Building Code (HVHZ) requirements apply to all construction
  • Impact fees for schools, parks, and utilities are typically required
  • Detached ADUs must meet setbacks specified in Miami 21 zoning code
  • Owner-occupancy may be required — check current Miami 21 regulations
  • Licensed architect required for most ADU permit applications

Miami ADU Permit Fees Breakdown

Fee TypeTypical Amount
Building Permit (valuation-based)$1,500–$5,000
Electrical Permit$300–$800
Plumbing Permit$300–$700
Mechanical/HVAC Permit$200–$600
Impact Fees (schools, parks, utilities)$2,000–$8,000+
Planning Review Fee$500–$1,500

How to Get a ADU Permit in Miami

1

Check Miami 21 Zoning

Miami uses the Miami 21 form-based code. Confirm your transect zone at gis.miami.gov/miamizoning and verify ADU allowances for your zone.

2

Hire Architect & Contractor

ADU permits require plans by a Florida-licensed architect and construction by a Florida-licensed general contractor.

3

Pre-Application Meeting

Schedule a pre-application meeting with the City of Miami Planning Department to review your project before submitting.

4

Submit Full Permit Package

File building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits together through Miami's iBuild portal. Include full construction drawings, survey, and energy calculations.

5

Plan Review (2–6 months)

Expect a lengthy review process — ADU projects go through planning, building, zoning, and environmental reviews. Expedited review is available for an additional fee.

6

Construction & Inspections

Multiple inspections required throughout construction. Final inspection and certificate of occupancy required before ADU can be occupied.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Miami allows ADUs (called 'accessory dwelling units' or 'secondary units') on qualifying residential properties under the Miami 21 zoning code. Eligibility depends on your transect zone, lot size, and existing structure. Properties in T3 (single-family) and higher zones generally allow ADUs.
Miami ADU permits typically cost $2,000–$10,000+ in permit fees alone, not including the cost of construction ($150,000–$400,000+). Permit fees include building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits, plus planning review fees and impact fees for utilities, schools, and parks.
ADU permits in Miami typically take 3–6 months from application to approval due to the multiple review agencies involved (planning, building, zoning, fire). The full project from design to occupancy typically takes 12–18 months.
Miami generally limits ADUs to 50% of the primary structure's floor area or 750 square feet, whichever is less, though the specific limits depend on your transect zone under Miami 21. Your architect can confirm the exact limits for your property.
Miami 21 has historically required owner-occupancy for ADU properties, but regulations have evolved — check the current Miami 21 code or consult with the Planning Department to confirm current owner-occupancy requirements for your project.