Florida Senate passes 'Granny Flat' housing bill

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. —

A proposal aimed at boosting affordable housing by allowing garage apartments and other accessory dwellings on single-family home lots passed the Florida Senate unanimously on Wednesday, but the measure is once again awaiting action by the House.

The bill would permit accessory dwelling units, commonly known as ADUs or "granny flats," in areas typically restricted to single-family homes. Supporters say the units can help address Florida's ongoing housing shortage by expanding lower-cost rental options without large-scale development.

Senate sponsor Don Gaetz says there's always a need for more affordable housing in the state.

"ADUs can increase workforce housing," Gaetz said. "Because ADUs cost less to build, they cost less to rent and are often located in areas where workers need to live to be close to their jobs."

The Senate vote comes a year after both chambers approved separate versions of similar legislation, only to see the effort stall when lawmakers failed to agree on how to regulate the units as short-term rentals. That issue has remained a sticking point in negotiations.

A comparable bill in the House this year still must clear two committee stops before it can be taken up on the floor, raising questions about whether the proposal will advance before the end of the legislative session.

Under current law, cities and counties retain broad authority to regulate accessory dwelling units, which are independent living spaces added to existing residential properties, such as converted garages or backyard cottages.

Gaetz said the Senate measure streamlines the approval process for homeowners while preserving local zoning standards.

"Under this bill, ADUs are approved without requiring a public hearing, variance, conditional use permit or special exemption, so long as the site plan conforms with applicable zoning regulations," Gaetz said.

Housing advocates argue the approach could modestly increase supply in established neighborhoods while avoiding the costs and delays associated with larger developments. Opponents, however, have raised concerns in past debates about neighborhood character and the potential for increased short-term rentals.

For now, the proposal's future hinges on whether the House takes up the issue — and whether lawmakers can resolve their differences this time around.

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