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FLORIDA - Florida lawmakers are advancing legislation to address the state’s affordable housing crisis by expanding the use of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), commonly known as “granny flats.”
Senate Bill 184 and House Bill 247, approved by legislative committees last week, would require cities and counties to permit these small, independent living spaces in single-family residential areas.
Currently, local governments can choose whether to allow ADUs, but the proposed law would make them mandatory.
Supporters argue that ADUs provide cost-effective housing, especially in urban areas where affordability is a growing concern.
Sen. Don Gaetz, R-Niceville, who is sponsoring the Senate bill, emphasized that these units are cheaper to build and rent, helping workers live closer to jobs.
The proposal follows the 2023 "Live Local Act," aimed at expanding workforce housing.
The bills have gained support from groups such as AARP, the Florida Chamber of Commerce, and Americans for Prosperity.
However, concerns have been raised about the potential misuse of ADUs as short-term rentals.
To address this, Gaetz introduced a provision prohibiting rentals of fewer than 30 days.
The legislation also ensures homeowners won’t lose their homestead tax exemptions, though ADUs will be taxed separately.
With the Senate bill heading to the Rules Committee, the proposal moves closer to a full vote.
If passed, it could significantly increase small-scale housing options across Florida, providing more affordable alternatives while addressing the ongoing housing shortage.
