How to Get an ADU Permit in Fort Lauderdale: Complete 2025 Guide
Insights
November 30, 2025
minute read
Key Takeaways
Fort Lauderdale ADU permits require both zoning verification and building permits, with total timelines of 6-18 months from application to occupancy
Maximum ADU size is 600 square feet or 49% of primary dwelling (whichever is less), limited to 1 bedroom/1 bathroom or efficiency configuration
ADUs are regulated under Section 47-19.2 of Fort Lauderdale's Unified Land Development Code with strict architectural consistency requirements
Total permit and inspection fees range from $4,000-$8,000, with utility connection fees adding $1,200+ for wastewater capacity
All applications must be submitted digitally through the LauderBuild portal—paper applications are no longer accepted as of 2024
Hurricane-resistant construction with 170 mph wind rating for standard residential structures (Risk Category II) is mandatory for Fort Lauderdale's High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) compliance
Mesocore's factory-built ADU arrives with pre-installed MEP systems and Intertek certification, potentially eliminating rough-in inspections and reducing construction time to 10 days on-site
Fort Lauderdale's accessory dwelling unit regulations provide homeowners with opportunities to add rental income-generating properties or multigenerational housing to their existing lots. The permitting process follows Fort Lauderdale's strict Section 47-19.2 requirements, demanding architectural consistency with primary dwellings and compliance with High Velocity Hurricane Zone building codes. For homeowners seeking a streamlined solution, Mesocore's Model E ADU offers factory-installed utilities, hurricane-rated construction exceeding 180 mph wind resistance, and 10-day on-site installation that simplifies Fort Lauderdale's complex permitting requirements.
The permit process involves eight sequential steps from zoning verification through Certificate of Occupancy issuance. Unlike some Florida cities, Fort Lauderdale imposes a 600 square foot maximum or 49% of primary dwelling size (whichever is less), making it one of the more restrictive ADU markets in the state. All applications must flow through the digital LauderBuild platform, with strict requirements for digitally sealed professional plans and comprehensive documentation.
Understanding Fort Lauderdale ADU Requirements and Zoning
Fort Lauderdale's ADU regulations under Section 47-19.2 of the Unified Land Development Code establish specific size limitations, design standards, and zoning criteria that differ significantly from other Florida jurisdictions.
Key Zoning Regulations for ADUs in Fort Lauderdale
Permitted zoning districts include RS-8, RD-15, RC-15, RM-15, RML-25, RMM-25, RMH-25, and RMH-60 residential zones. Properties must be designated for single-family residential use, cannot be located in restricted historic districts without additional approvals, and must comply with any HOA restrictions (which the city doesn't review but may prohibit ADUs).
Lot size and coverage requirements vary by zoning district, with minimum lot sizes ranging from 5,000-25,000 square feet depending on the zone. Total structure coverage including the ADU cannot exceed maximum density limits for each district. The 15% threshold rule applies—accessory structures with gross floor area less than 15% of minimum required lot size may use reduced setbacks.
Owner occupancy is mandatory, with the property owner required to live on-site in either the primary residence or the ADU. Short-term rentals (occupancy for less than 30 days) are prohibited—ADUs are intended for long-term residential use only.
Understanding Fort Lauderdale's ADU Size and Height Limits
The maximum ADU size is 600 square feet OR 49% of the primary dwelling's gross floor area, whichever is less. This is significantly more restrictive than many Florida cities. ADUs are limited to 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom, or an efficiency/studio configuration with combined living/sleeping areas.
Only one ADU per single-family lot is permitted. If the ADU is attached to an accessory structure like a detached garage, it must have a separate entrance and fire-resistant wall separation meeting Florida Building Code requirements.
Height restrictions typically limit accessory structures to 15 feet maximum, though some districts may allow greater heights with special approval. ADUs cannot exceed the height of the primary dwelling.
Design standards require architectural consistency with the primary dwelling. This includes similar exterior materials and colors, compatible roof pitch and style, matching window styles and proportions, and coordinated design elements that create visual harmony with the main house.
Mesocore's Model E ADU at 410 square feet fits comfortably within Fort Lauderdale's 600 square foot maximum while offering a complete 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom configuration. The exterior can be customized with LP SmartSide siding and trim to match your primary dwelling's architectural style, satisfying the city's design consistency requirements.
Owner Occupancy and Parking Requirements for ADUs
Parking
Fort Lauderdale generally requires at least 1 additional off-street parking space for the ADU that meets Department of Public Works standards. This space cannot reduce the primary dwelling’s required parking below code and must comply with paving and drainage requirements.
Utilities
ADUs must have independent utility connections. Fort Lauderdale allows separate meters for water, electric, and sewer. Some Mesocore ADUs in other Florida jurisdictions operate off-grid using the 6 kW solar system and dual 10 kWh batteries, but any off-grid setup in Fort Lauderdale should be confirmed with Building Services.
Setbacks
Setbacks depend on zoning and ADU size. ADUs under 15% of lot area can often use 3-foot side and rear setbacks. Larger units typically require 7-foot side setbacks and 20-foot rear setbacks, subject to district-specific standards.
Initiating Your Fort Lauderdale ADU Permit Search and Application
Fort Lauderdale's building permit process begins with the LauderBuild digital platform, which replaced paper applications in 2024 and serves as the central hub for all permit activities.
Navigating the Fort Lauderdale Building Department Website
The Fort Lauderdale Development Services Department is located at 700 NW 19th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311. The main phone line is (954) 828-6520, with dedicated options for different services:
Option 1: Customer Service/LauderBuild Assistance
Option 2: Zoning Division
Option 5: Zoning inquiries for less complex questions
Office hours are Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, with walk-in hours for zoning inquiries Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM for less complex matters.
The LauderBuild portal serves as Fort Lauderdale's digital permitting system. All permit applications, document uploads, fee payments, and inspection scheduling occur through this platform. Desktop computers are required—the platform is not supported on mobile devices.
For LauderBuild technical support, contact LauderBuild@fortlauderdale.gov or call (954) 828-6520, Option 1. The Property Information Reporter tool provides immediate zoning and land use information for your property.
Required Documents for ADU Permit Submission
Fort Lauderdale requires comprehensive documentation before permit review begins. Incomplete applications are the leading cause of delays in the city's building department.
Architectural plans must be prepared by a Florida Licensed Professional Engineer or Registered Architect. All plans require digitally sealed signatures—applications lacking verifiable digital seals will be rejected without review. Required plans include:
Complete site survey showing property boundaries, existing structures, and proposed ADU location
Floor plans with dimensions and room labels
Elevations of all four sides
Cross-sections showing construction details
Foundation plans with specifications
Roof framing plans
Detailed construction specifications
MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) plans must be sealed by licensed professionals:
Electrical plans showing panel locations, circuits, and fixtures
Plumbing plans showing water supply, drain lines, and fixtures
Mechanical/HVAC plans showing equipment locations and ductwork
Structural calculations if required, digitally sealed by a licensed engineer, demonstrating compliance with Florida Building Code wind load requirements of 170 mph for HVHZ zones (Risk Category II).
Energy compliance documentation using approved software like Ekotrope, Right-Energy Florida, or Energy Gauge Summit showing ResCheck report demonstrating compliance with Florida Energy Code requirements.
Additional required documents include:
Property survey (current within 1-2 years)
Drainage plan showing stormwater management
Landscape plan if required by code
Owner-Builder Affidavit if acting as your own contractor
Contractor License Verification if using a contractor
Notice of Commencement if project value exceeds $5,000
Proof of property ownership
Mesocore's turnkey approach simplifies documentation requirements significantly. The factory-installed MEP systems arrive with Intertek certification—third-party quality control verification that many jurisdictions accept in lieu of on-site rough-in inspections. Complete structural engineering documentation for the 180 mph wind-rated steel core is provided with each unit, streamlining the plan review process.
Timeline for Fort Lauderdale ADU Permit Approval
The initial plan review typically takes 4-8 weeks, though Fort Lauderdale's official policy targets 30 business days for completion. Most applications receive comments requiring resubmittal after initial review, with each revision cycle adding 2-4 weeks.
Total permit timeline from application to approval ranges from 6-10 weeks for straightforward projects, but complex designs or incomplete applications can extend this to 3-4 months or longer.
Fort Lauderdale's building department processes thousands of permits annually, with spring and summer representing peak seasons that can add 25-50% to review times. Fall and winter submissions typically move faster through the system.
Factors accelerating approval include:
Complete, accurate applications with all required digital seals
Professional preparation by architects/engineers familiar with Fort Lauderdale codes
Pre-application consultation with Development Services
Use of permit expediter services
Off-season submission (fall/winter)
Factors extending timelines include:
Incomplete applications missing signatures or documents
Plan revisions requiring multiple correction cycles
High permit volume during spring/summer
Complex projects requiring additional engineering review
Historic district approvals
HOA review requirements
For comprehensive guidance on Florida ADU permits across the state, our statewide guide provides comparative analysis of different jurisdictions' processes.
Completing Your Fort Lauderdale Building Permits: Necessary Steps
Fort Lauderdale's building permit process involves eight sequential steps from initial zoning verification through final Certificate of Occupancy issuance.
Step 1: Pre-Application Research & Zoning Verification
Contact the Fort Lauderdale Zoning Division at (954) 828-6520, Option 5 during walk-in hours Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM for less complex inquiries.
What to verify:
Property is zoned for ADUs (RS-8, RD-15, RC-15, RM-15, RML-25, RMM-25, RMH-25, RMH-60)
Lot size meets minimum requirements for your district
Setback requirements for your specific property
Not in restricted historic district or HOA-prohibited area
Review Section 47-19.2 of Fort Lauderdale's Unified Land Development Code
What to bring:
Property address and parcel/folio number
Current property survey if available
Preliminary ADU size and location plans
Fee: No charge for initial zoning inquiry
Processing Time: Same-day verification for walk-ins during designated hours
Step 2: Hire Licensed Design Professional
All construction plans must be prepared by a Florida Licensed Professional Engineer or Registered Architect. DIY designs will not be accepted.
Required professional services include:
Complete architectural plans (floor plans, elevations, cross-sections)
Structural calculations for hurricane resistance
Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical system designs
Site plan showing setbacks and placement
Drainage plan
Hurricane resistance specifications meeting HVHZ standards
Typical cost range: $3,000-$8,000 for professional design services
Timeline: 2-4 weeks for plan development
Verify professionals at MyFloridaLicense.com to confirm:
Active Florida license
Fort Lauderdale ADU experience
Familiarity with Section 47-19.2 requirements
References from recent ADU projects
Step 3: LauderBuild Account Setup & Application Submission
Create your account at aca-prod.accela.com using a desktop computer—mobile devices are not supported.
Application process:
Create LauderBuild account
Select "Permits/Engineering (ROW)" application type
Complete Broward County/Fort Lauderdale Uniform Building Permit Application
Upload all required documents to correct categories
Pay initial fees
Important notes:
Paper applications are NO LONGER ACCEPTED as of 2024
All submissions must be digital via LauderBuild
Ensure all documents are properly labeled
Incomplete applications will be rejected without review
Initial fees to pay:
Minimum Building Permit Fee: $85.00
Actual permit fee: Calculated as percentage of total construction cost (typically $3,000-$6,000 for ADUs)
Plan Review Fees: $85.00 per additional discipline (electrical, plumbing, structural)
State Surcharges: 2.5% of permit fee (minimum $4.00)
Payment note: Credit/debit cards incur a 2.75% service fee effective March 1, 2025. Use ACH, EFT, in-person check, or mailed check to avoid this fee.
Step 4: Plan Review Process
The Fort Lauderdale Development Services Department conducts multi-discipline review covering:
Building code compliance
Zoning verification against Section 47-19.2
Engineering review
Fire safety requirements
Utility connections
Environmental and drainage review
Review timeline:
Target: 30 business days per city policy
Realistic: 4-8 weeks depending on complexity
Follow-up reviews: 2-4 weeks per round of corrections
What to expect:
Most applications require at least one round of comments
Comments delivered via LauderBuild portal
Must address all comments and resubmit revised plans
Process repeats until all disciplines approve
Contact Permit Solutions Team at (954) 828-3160 or PermitSolutions@fortlauderdale.gov for review questions.
Step 5: Permit Issuance & Payment
Once all review disciplines approve, you'll receive email notification through LauderBuild.
Steps to complete:
Download approved plans from LauderBuild
Pay remaining permit fees
Receive permit documents electronically
Total Permit Fees (Typical ADU Range):
Base Building Permit: $3,000 - $6,000
Additional Discipline Reviews: $85 each
Engineering Inspections: $210 per inspection
State Surcharges: 2.5% of permit fee (min $4)
Estimated Total: $3,500 - $7,000
What you'll receive:
Approved permit documents
Approved construction plans (stamped)
Permit card to print and keep on-site during construction
Inspection schedule requirements
Important: Permit expires in 180 days if construction doesn't begin. Extension available for $85.00.
Step 6: Notice of Commencement Filing
If estimated project value exceeds $5,000, file Notice of Commencement with Broward County Records, Taxes and Treasury Division:
Address: 115 S. Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Phone: (954) 357-7450
Email: records@broward.org
Website: www.broward.org
Timeline: Must be recorded BEFORE starting construction
Fee: Recording fees typically $10-$30
Why this matters:
Protects property owner's title
Establishes lien rights timeline
Required before first inspection can be scheduled
One certified copy must be submitted to Fort Lauderdale Building Department
Step 7: Construction Phase with Required Inspections
Schedule inspections via LauderBuild portal or phone (954) 828-6520.
Traditional construction required inspections:
Foundation Inspection—before pouring concrete
Rough Framing Inspection—after framing complete, before walls closed
Rough Electrical Inspection—wiring complete, before walls closed
Rough Plumbing Inspection—plumbing complete, before walls closed
Rough Mechanical Inspection—HVAC installation, before walls closed
Insulation Inspection—before drywall
Fire Safety Inspection—smoke detectors, fire-rated materials
Final Building Inspection—upon project completion
Final Electrical Inspection—all electrical work complete
Final Plumbing Inspection—all plumbing complete
Final Mechanical Inspection—HVAC system complete and operational
Inspection fees:
Engineering Inspections: $210.00 per inspection
Business Tax-Building Inspection (all disciplines): $150.00
Specialty/After-Hours Inspections: $97.50/hour (4-hour minimum)
Re-Inspection (third occurrence): Higher fees apply
Mesocore inspection advantage: Because all MEP systems are factory-installed and Intertek-certified before delivery, Mesocore ADUs can potentially eliminate rough-in inspections for plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems in some jurisdictions. This reduces total inspection requirements and accelerates construction timelines. Verification with Fort Lauderdale Building Services is recommended.
Construction timeline: Typically 12-32 weeks for traditional site-built ADUs, but Mesocore's modular approach reduces on-site installation to approximately 10 days.
Step 8: Certificate of Occupancy Application
After all final inspections pass, submit Certificate of Occupancy request via LauderBuild.
Requirements:
All final inspections passed and signed off
All permit conditions satisfied
Utilities connected and operational
Compliance with all approved plans
No outstanding violations or corrections needed
Certificate of Occupancy Fees:
Residential Certificate of Occupancy: $150.00
Temporary/Partial C.O.: $125.00
Timeline: 1-2 weeks after final inspection approval
Important notes:
ADU cannot be occupied without C.O.
Renting without C.O. is illegal and can result in fines
C.O. must be kept on file
Some areas may require additional "Certificate of Use" for rental purposes
For more details on Broward County permits, our county-specific guide provides broader regional context beyond Fort Lauderdale city limits.
Critical Inspections During Fort Lauderdale ADU Construction
Fort Lauderdale's inspection requirements follow Florida Building Code 8th Edition (2023 version), with additional HVHZ-specific requirements for hurricane-prone areas.
Foundation and structural inspections verify compliance with 170 mph wind load requirements (Risk Category II) for High Velocity Hurricane Zone construction. Inspectors check:
Continuous concrete footings for all exterior walls
Minimum footing size of 8 inches by 24 inches for buildings 2.5 stories or less
Footing reinforcement with three #4 bars or two #5 bars
Continuous anchorage from footing to girder or wall framing
Bond beam at top of concrete/masonry foundation walls with one #5 reinforcing bar
Rough-in inspections occur before walls are closed in. Traditional construction requires separate inspections for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems. However, Mesocore's factory-installed MEP systems arrive pre-tested and Intertek-certified, potentially eliminating these on-site rough-in inspections and reducing the total number of required inspections.
Hurricane resistance verification includes:
Impact-rated windows and doors with Florida Product Approval
Roof-to-wall connections using approved connectors
Wall sheathing with continuous wood structural panel sheathing
Proper fastening schedules per code tables
Enhanced connections resisting uplift forces
Final inspections verify all systems are complete and operational:
Final building inspection covering all construction elements
Final electrical inspection with all circuits tested
Final plumbing inspection with all fixtures operational
Final mechanical inspection with HVAC system running
Landscaping/stormwater compliance if required
Scheduling requirements:
Request inspections at least 24 hours in advance
Permit card must be posted at job site
Work area must be accessible and ready
Contractor or responsible party must be present
Failed inspection protocol:
Correct noted deficiencies
Re-schedule inspection (additional fees may apply after second failure)
Cannot proceed to next phase until inspection passes
Ensuring Compliance with Florida Building Code for ADUs
Fort Lauderdale enforces the Florida Building Code, 8th Edition (2023), based on the 2021 International Building Code and International Residential Code.
HVHZ (High Velocity Hurricane Zone) compliance is mandatory for Fort Lauderdale and all Broward County construction. This designation applies only to Miami-Dade and Broward Counties in Florida, requiring the most stringent wind resistance standards in the state.
Wind resistance requirements mandate design for 170 mph ultimate design wind speed for standard residential structures (Risk Category II) in Fort Lauderdale's coastal location. This represents the minimum code requirement for typical ADU construction.
Impact-resistant products are required for all glazed openings (windows and doors). Products must:
Meet Florida Product Approval (FPA) standards
Withstand impacts from a 9-pound 2x4 board shot at 50 feet per second (34 mph)
Resist positive and negative design pressures after impact
Carry proper FPA labels and documentation
Roof requirements follow ASCE 7-22 design standards:
Minimum 4 fasteners per shingle with roofing nails in 110+ mph zones
Enhanced toughness requirements for 130+ mph zones
Roof deck compliance with wind load requirements
Proper flashing and edge detailing to prevent uplift
Mesocore's hurricane-resistant construction exceeds HVHZ requirements with robotically welded structural steel cores rated to 180 mph, impact-rated windows and doors, and engineered connections exceeding code minimums. The factory-controlled construction environment ensures consistent quality that site-built construction cannot match.
Energy efficiency standards require compliance with Florida Energy Code using:
Energy Performance Index (EPI) of 95 or better
ResCheck software calculations
High-efficiency HVAC equipment
Proper insulation values for Florida climate (R15 walls/R24 roof/R20 floor)
Energy Star appliances
Accessibility features may be required depending on intended use and local requirements. Consult with Fort Lauderdale Building Services for specific accessibility standards applicable to your ADU project.
Obtaining Your Certificate of Occupancy for an ADU
The Certificate of Occupancy represents the final approval allowing legal occupancy of your Fort Lauderdale ADU.
Prerequisites for C.O. issuance:
All construction must be complete per approved plans
All final inspections passed with no outstanding corrections
Utilities connected and operational (water, sewer, electrical)
Certificate of Completion from your contractor
Final payment of all permit fees
No code violations or compliance issues
Application process:
Submit C.O. request through LauderBuild portal
Final inspection verification by Building Official
Payment of $150.00 Certificate of Occupancy fee
Issuance of Certificate
Timeline: Typically 1-2 weeks after final inspection approval, though straightforward projects may receive same-week approval.
What the C.O. allows:
Legal occupancy of ADU by residents
Ability to rent unit to tenants (if permitted by zoning)
Proof of code compliance for insurance purposes
Required documentation for utility account activation
Protection from code enforcement actions
Important restrictions:
ADU cannot be occupied without C.O.—doing so is illegal
Renting without C.O. can result in fines and penalties
C.O. must be kept on file for future reference
Some rental situations may require additional "Certificate of Use"
Short-term rentals under 30 days are prohibited regardless of C.O. status
Temporary Certificate of Occupancy may be available for $125.00 if minor items remain incomplete but the structure is safe for occupancy. This allows move-in while addressing punch-list items, but all conditions must be satisfied within the specified timeframe.
For investors interested in ADU rental income, our Broward County ROI analysis provides detailed financial projections for Fort Lauderdale and surrounding areas.
Why Mesocore Is Your Best Choice for Fort Lauderdale ADU Projects
Fort Lauderdale’s strict HVHZ codes, layered permits, and long build times make traditional ADUs slow and expensive. Mesocore’s factory-built system is designed around those exact constraints—simplifying approvals, accelerating timelines, and bundling hurricane resilience and sustainability into one package.
Streamlined permitting process
Mesocore units arrive with Intertek-certified MEP systems and complete structural engineering for a 180 mph steel core, giving plan reviewers standardized, pre-documented details. Many jurisdictions accept this third-party certification in place of multiple rough-in inspections, reducing permits, trades to coordinate, and on-site inspection risk.
Hurricane resilience beyond code
Fort Lauderdale’s HVHZ requires 170 mph wind resistance and impact-rated openings. Mesocore exceeds this with robotically welded steel cores rated to 180 mph, factory-installed impact windows/doors with Florida Product Approval, and engineered connections verified before shipment. Factory-controlled building delivers consistency that site-built projects—assembled in open weather—struggle to match.
10-day installation timeline
Instead of 12–32 weeks of on-site construction, Mesocore completes installation in about 10 days once the foundation and utilities are ready. The 20-foot containerized unit expands to 410 sq ft with all electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and solar systems already installed and tested—cutting disruption, weather delays, and time to rental income or family move-in.
Integrated sustainability with minimal utility costs
A 6 kW solar array plus dual 10 kWh batteries targets zero electric bills from day one, while a 1,700-gallon rainwater system with purification enables water independence where allowed. Energy Star appliances, high R-value insulation (R15/R24/R20), and LED lighting support efficient operation, with potential annual utility savings of $1,500–$1,820 and, in some jurisdictions, off-grid approvals that avoid $1,200+ wastewater capacity fees.
Transparent, predictable pricing
The Model E starts at $129,000 with all core systems included, reducing exposure to change orders, weather delays, and material price swings common in site-built projects.
Strong financial performance
Stacked incentives—30% federal solar tax credit, Florida renewable energy property tax exemptions, and 20–55% hurricane mitigation insurance discounts—support immediate positive cash flow. With average Florida rents around $2,200/month, a Mesocore ADU can achieve an 18.4% annual ROI and a 5.4-year payback on a $129,000 investment, while adding long-term property value often equal to 40–60% of build cost.
Superior quality control
Every unit is built in a climate-controlled factory, inspected at each production stage, and Intertek-certified before delivery. Materials never sit in the rain, all connections are pre-tested, and the steel core significantly outperforms wood framing for durability—critical in Florida’s heat, humidity, and storm conditions.
Local factory advantage
Mesocore’s West Palm Beach facility serves Fort Lauderdale directly, keeping delivery within the optimal 250–400 mile shipping range. Local manufacturing supports faster logistics, lower transport costs, and hands-on assistance with Fort Lauderdale’s Section 47-19.2, HVHZ rules, and local permitting.
For Fort Lauderdale homeowners, Mesocore turns a typical 6–18 month ADU slog into a clear, compressed path to rental income, multigenerational living, or a resilient, sustainable primary residence—with hurricane resistance, solar, rainwater, and factory-tested quality built in from day one.
Contact Mesocore at 561-386-7252 or info@mesocore.com to schedule a consultation and site assessment for your Fort Lauderdale ADU project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum size for an ADU in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale limits ADUs to 600 square feet OR 49% of the primary dwelling's gross floor area, whichever is less. This is more restrictive than many Florida cities. ADUs are further limited to 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom, or an efficiency/studio configuration. Mesocore's Model E ADU at 410 square feet fits comfortably within these limits while providing a complete 1BR/1BA layout with full kitchen, bathroom, and living space.
How long does it typically take to get an ADU permit approved in Fort Lauderdale?
The complete permitting process takes 6-18 months from initial application to Certificate of Occupancy. Initial plan review averages 4-8 weeks, with most projects requiring 1-2 revision cycles adding 2-4 weeks each. Construction timelines add 12-32 weeks for traditional site-built ADUs. However, Mesocore's modular approach reduces on-site construction to approximately 10 days once permits are approved, since the unit arrives with factory-installed utilities and Intertek certification.
Can I use a Mesocore ADU as a rental property in Fort Lauderdale?
Yes, Fort Lauderdale allows ADU rentals to non-family members with owner-occupancy of either the primary residence or the ADU. Rental income averages $2,200/month in Florida markets. Mesocore ADUs with integrated solar systems eliminating utility bills can command premium rents while delivering 18.4% annual ROI. Short-term rentals under 30 days are prohibited—only long-term tenants are permitted.
Are Mesocore ADUs compliant with Fort Lauderdale's hurricane building codes?
Yes, Mesocore ADUs exceed Fort Lauderdale's requirements. The city requires 170 mph wind resistance (Risk Category II) as part of HVHZ (High Velocity Hurricane Zone) compliance. Mesocore's robotically welded structural steel cores are rated to 180 mph, exceeding code minimums. Impact-rated windows and doors with Florida Product Approval and factory-tested construction meet all HVHZ standards. The units qualify for 20-55% insurance premium discounts for hurricane mitigation features, with impact windows alone providing 30% discounts on wind portions.
