Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Construction in Clearwater, FL

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a fully independent, self-contained residential space located on the same lot as a single-family home. Unlike a standard home addition or interior guest suite, an ADU includes its own private entrance, full kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area — offering complete privacy and functionality. These units are ideal for a wide range of uses, from housing aging parents or adult children to generating long-term rental income or creating a flexible live-work space.

In Clearwater and across Pinellas County, ADUs are subject to specific zoning and building standards designed to preserve neighborhood character while increasing housing flexibility. Navigating these regulations requires working with experienced ADU contractors who understand not only the construction requirements but also the administrative processes involved. At Coastal Haven Design + Build, we help you determine whether your property meets the necessary county zoning criteria and walk you through the Flexible Standard Development process.

From evaluating lot coverage and setbacks to submitting applications and building permits, our contractors manage the entire ADU construction journey — ensuring every phase complies with Pinellas County ordinances and Clearwater’s local code. We also coordinate closely with county officials and inspectors throughout the project to ensure smooth approvals and high-quality execution. As trusted local ADU contractors, our goal is to deliver a space that’s beautiful, practical, and fully compliant — built to support your goals today and into the future.

ADUs are permitted in the Low Density Residential (LDR), Low Medium Density Residential (LMDR), and Medium Density Residential (MDR) zoning districts. Each zoning type has unique requirements regarding lot size, setbacks, building height, and lot coverage. During our initial consultation, we’ll review your property’s zoning status and determine whether your lot qualifies. If so, we’ll prepare and submit your Flexible Standard Development application and manage the zoning approval process on your behalf.

The City of Clearwater limits ADUs to a maximum of 750 square feet or 50% of the primary dwelling’s gross floor area, whichever is less. These size limits ensure the ADU remains accessory in scale to the main home. When you work with Coastal Haven, we’ll help you design an ADU that maximizes function within the allowable footprint and submit detailed plans to the city for approval as part of your zoning and permit package.

Yes. The City of Clearwater requires ADUs to be architecturally compatible with the primary structure. This means your ADU should feature a similar roof pitch, paint color, window style, and overall design language. Our in-house design team will work closely with you to develop plans that meet these visual standards and prepare the architectural documents required for zoning and building permit review.

Only one ADU is allowed per lot in Clearwater, and only if your property meets the necessary zoning and density standards. As part of our feasibility review, we’ll confirm that your parcel qualifies and document any potential limitations upfront. If your property meets all requirements, we’ll complete and submit your Flexible Standard Development application and handle the zoning review and approval process.

The city requires one off-street parking space in addition to what’s already required for the primary home. In some cases, if approved by the City Engineer, a legal on-street space may be accepted as a substitute. We’ll help you evaluate your parking options during the planning phase and coordinate any necessary approvals, including submitting site plans that show compliance or requesting substitutions during the application process.

To build an ADU in Clearwater, Florida you must first receive zoning approval via a Flexible Standard Development application, which is reviewed administratively by the Development Review Committee (DRC). There is no public hearing required. Applications are due by noon on the first business day of each month, with a filing fee of $200. We’ll take care of this entire process for you — from submitting the zoning application to handling plan revisions and scheduling city meetings. Once zoning is approved, we’ll proceed with building permits and construction planning. 

The terms “short-term rental” and “vacation rental” often overlap, but when it comes to Clearwater zoning law, it’s the length of stay that makes all the difference — especially if you're planning to rent out an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU).

A short-term rental typically refers to any furnished living space rented for a limited period, whether it’s for a week, a few nights, or even just a weekend. These properties often cater to business travelers, snowbirds, or remote workers looking for flexibility and convenience. Meanwhile, a vacation rental usually refers to destination-based properties designed for leisure — think beach cottages, lake houses, or unique Airbnb-style stays meant to offer an “experience.”

Here in Clearwater, short-term stays of fewer than 31 consecutive days are not permitted in residential zones. That includes both vacation-style rentals and quick turnover properties. However, extended stay rentals of 31 days or more — sometimes called mid-term or month-to-month rentals — are allowed, and this is where ADUs can shine. With a legal ADU, you can rent to traveling nurses, corporate clients, or individuals relocating to the area, as long as each stay meets the 31-day minimum.

We help you assess your goals and make sure your ADU complies with all local laws. That includes confirming zoning eligibility, preparing your Flexible Standard Development application, and walking you through the Business Tax Receipt process. Whether you plan to use the unit for family, long-term guests, or income-generating extended stays, we make sure your project is designed, built, and permitted legally from day one.