How to Get an ADU Permit in Port St. Lucie
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November 22, 2025
minute read
Key Takeaways
Port St. Lucie requires building permits for all ADUs, with processing times of 4-8 weeks for plan review plus construction timelines of 4-6 months for traditional builds
Permit fees range from $360-$666 for base building permits depending on ADU size, plus separate electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits
Florida law requires Port St. Lucie to adopt comprehensive ADU ordinances by December 1, 2025, potentially expanding availability in all single-family zones
All ADUs must meet 180 mph wind load requirements for hurricane resistance with impact-rated windows and doors
Homeowner-builder permits MUST be applied for in person per Florida Statute, while licensed contractors can use online portals
Factory-built modular ADUs with Intertek certification streamline permitting by eliminating rough-in inspections for MEP systems
Mesocore's modular ADUs feature pre-installed utilities, 180 mph wind ratings, and 10-day installation timelines versus 4-6 months for site-built construction
Port St. Lucie represents a growing market for accessory dwelling units as Florida addresses its housing shortage and rising property costs. The city's location on Florida's Treasure Coast, combined with increasing demand for multigenerational housing and rental income opportunities, makes ADUs an attractive option for homeowners. With median home prices climbing and the ADU market growth projected from $18 billion in 2024 to $43.35 billion by 2034, understanding Port St. Lucie's permitting process is essential for homeowners exploring factory-built modular homes.
The permitting process requires navigating both city and county regulations depending on your property location, with timelines averaging 3-4 months from application to construction start. Unlike some municipalities, Port St. Lucie enforces stringent hurricane-resistant construction standards requiring 180 mph wind ratings—critical for coastal Florida properties facing Category 5 hurricane threats.
What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Port St. Lucie?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary independent living space on the same lot as a primary residence, featuring separate entrance, kitchen facilities, bathroom, and sleeping areas. In Port St. Lucie and St. Lucie County, ADUs are also commonly called granny flats, backyard cottages, in-law suites, or secondary units.
Common ADU types in Florida include:
Detached ADUs: Standalone structures separate from the main house, typically built in backyards
Attached ADUs: Connected to the primary residence but with independent access and utilities
Garage conversions: Existing garages transformed into living spaces
Basement or attic conversions: Unused spaces within the main structure converted to separate units
Port St. Lucie's ADU regulations fall under the jurisdiction of either the City Building Department for properties within city limits or St. Lucie County Building Department for unincorporated areas. The key distinction is that ADUs function as completely independent residences with their own utilities, unlike guest houses that lack full kitchen facilities.
Legal Definition Under Port St. Lucie Code
ADUs in Port St. Lucie must comply with the International Building Code (IBC) specifications and Florida Building Code requirements. The city enforces the 8th Edition (2023) Florida Building Code, which mandates specific construction standards including hurricane resistance, energy efficiency, and structural integrity.
Florida Statute 163.31771 requires municipalities to adopt ADU ordinances by December 1, 2025, permitting ADUs in all single-family residential zones. This pending legislation will significantly expand ADU availability throughout Port St. Lucie, though current regulations may still restrict where ADUs can be built until the ordinance takes effect.
Port St. Lucie ADU Requirements and Zoning Regulations
Understanding zoning eligibility is the critical first step before investing in ADU design or construction. Port St. Lucie's requirements vary based on property location and lot characteristics.
Minimum Lot Size for ADUs
While specific lot size minimums vary by zoning district, most residential zones in Port St. Lucie require adequate space to accommodate both the primary residence and ADU while meeting setback requirements. Contact the Planning & Zoning Department at (772) 871-5212 (or the Planner of the Day at 772-871-5213) to verify your property's eligibility.
The pending December 2025 ordinance requirement will likely establish clearer statewide standards for lot size minimums, setbacks, and ADU dimensions. Until then, pre-application consultations ($430 fee) provide site-specific guidance for your property.
Setback and Height Restrictions
Setback requirements determine how close ADUs can be built to property lines and existing structures. Standard requirements include:
Side setbacks: Typically 3-7 feet depending on ADU size and zoning district
Rear setbacks: Generally 15-20 feet from rear property line
Separation from primary structure: Minimum 5-10 feet for detached ADUs depending on district
Height restrictions: Maximum 15-35 feet depending on zone
These specifications align with general Florida practices but require verification with Port St. Lucie Planning & Zoning for your specific property. The city's online portal at fusion.cityofpsl.com provides zoning information, though complex projects benefit from professional consultation.
Owner Occupancy Requirements
Current regulations may require owner occupancy of either the primary residence or ADU, though this varies by jurisdiction. The December 2025 statewide ADU legislation will likely clarify these requirements, potentially eliminating restrictive owner-occupancy mandates that other Florida municipalities currently enforce.
For properties considering ADUs for rental, understanding these occupancy rules is essential for financial planning and return-on-investment calculations.
Step-by-Step ADU Permit Application Process in Port St. Lucie
The permitting process involves multiple phases with distinct requirements, making thorough preparation essential for avoiding costly delays.
Step 1: Determine Jurisdiction and Verify Zoning
Contact: Port St. Lucie Planning & Zoning Department
Address: 121 SW Port St. Lucie Boulevard, Port St. Lucie, FL 34984
Phone: (772) 871-5212 (or Planner of the Day at 772-871-5213)
Hours: Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
What to bring:
Property address and parcel ID
Lot survey (if available)
Preliminary ADU plans or sketches
Questions about setbacks, lot size, and ADU eligibility
Fee: $430 for pre-application meeting (optional but highly recommended)
Confirm whether your property falls within Port St. Lucie city limits or unincorporated St. Lucie County, as this determines which building department handles your permit. Verify your zoning district allows ADUs and check minimum lot size requirements, setback standards, and any deed restrictions that might prohibit secondary structures.
The "Planner of the Day" service provides same-day verbal guidance during office hours, though written determinations may take longer. For unincorporated county properties, contact St. Lucie County Planning at (772) 462-2822.
Step 2: Prepare Architectural Plans and Engineering Documents
All ADU plans must be sealed by Florida-licensed professionals—either a Registered Architect (RA) or Professional Engineer (PE) for structural elements. Required plan documents include:
Architectural drawings (floor plans, elevations, sections)
Site plan showing ADU location, setbacks, and parking
Structural engineering sealed by Florida PE
Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical plans
Foundation details and specifications
Hurricane wind load calculations (180 mph rating required)
Energy code compliance calculations
Florida Building Code 8th Edition (2023) compliance documentation
Design timeline: 2-8 weeks for custom designs
Typical design fees: $2,000-$15,000 depending on complexity
Mesocore's factory-built ADUs provide complete engineered plans with IBC and Florida Building Code compliance documentation, eliminating custom architectural fees while meeting all permitting requirements. The Model E ADU includes sealed engineering drawings for the 410 sq ft layout with 1BR/1BA configuration.
Step 3: Submit Building Permit Application
Contact: Port St. Lucie Building Department
Address: City Hall – Building B, 121 S.W. Port St. Lucie Boulevard, Port St. Lucie, FL 34984
Phone: (772) 871-5132
Inspection Division: (772) 871-5040
Email: Permitting@cityofpsl.com
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Required documents:
Completed building permit application
Sealed architectural and engineering plans (minimum 2 sets)
Site plan/survey
Proof of property ownership
Homeowner/Builder Affidavit (if owner acting as contractor)
Contractor license verification (if hiring contractor)
Payment for permit fees
Important: Homeowner-builder permits MUST be applied for in person per Florida Statute 489.103(7)(b). Only licensed contractors registered as "Computer Members" can use the online E-Permitting Portal.
Processing time: 4-8 weeks for plan review
Permit validity: 180 days from issuance, with 90-day extensions available
The city reviews applications across multiple departments including Building, Engineering, Fire, and Zoning. Incomplete applications or missing digital seals cause the most common delays. A 2.35% service fee applies to electronic payments; paying by cash or check avoids this fee.
Step 4: Schedule and Pass Required Inspections
Contact: Port St. Lucie Building Department Inspections Division
Phone: (772) 871-5040
Email: Inspections@cityofpsl.com
Scheduling: 24-hour advance notice required
Standard ADU inspection sequence:
Foundation/Slab inspection before concrete pour
Framing/Rough-In after framing complete, before drywall
Electrical Rough-In before walls closed
Plumbing Rough-In before walls closed
Mechanical Rough-In before walls closed
Insulation inspection before drywall
Final Building inspection after construction complete
Final Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical inspections
Certificate of Occupancy walkthrough
Mesocore ADU Advantage: Factory-built modular units with Intertek certification have pre-inspected MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) systems, potentially eliminating rough-in inspections for these trades. Local inspectors focus on foundation, site connections, and on-site work rather than the entire structure—significantly reducing inspection complexity and timeline.
Same-day or next-day inspection scheduling is typically available if scheduled 24-48 hours in advance. Failed inspections require corrections and re-inspection, adding 1-2 weeks each to the timeline.
Step 5: Obtain Certificate of Occupancy
Contact: Port St. Lucie Building Department
Phone: (772) 871-5132
Once all final inspections pass, submit the Certificate of Occupancy application. Required documentation includes:
Final inspection approvals for all trades
Utility connection confirmations
As-built drawings if changes occurred from approved plans
Contractor final affidavit
Manufacturer warranty documents
Processing time: 1-3 business days after final inspection approval
Fee: Included in original permit fee
No occupancy is permitted until the CO is issued. Insurance companies require COs for coverage, and future property sales need CO documentation.
ADU Permit Costs and Fees in Port St. Lucie
Understanding the complete cost structure helps homeowners budget accurately for ADU projects beyond just construction expenses.
Building Permit Fee Structure (2025)
ADU Size: 201-400 sq ft
Base Building Fee: $350.00
BIC Surcharge (1.5%): $5.25 minimum
FBC Surcharge (1%): $3.50 minimum
Total Approximate: ~$360
ADU Size: 401-600 sq ft
Base Building Fee: $400.00
BIC Surcharge (1.5%): $6.00
FBC Surcharge (1%): $4.00
Total Approximate: ~$410
ADU Size: 601-800 sq ft
Base Building Fee: $450.00
BIC Surcharge (1.5%): $6.75
FBC Surcharge (1%): $4.50
Total Approximate: ~$461
ADU Size: 801+ sq ft
Base Building Fee: $650.00
BIC Surcharge (1.5%): $9.75
FBC Surcharge (1%): $6.50
Total Approximate: ~$666
Additional permit fees:
Electrical permit: $150-$300 based on scope
Plumbing permit: $150-$300 based on fixtures
Mechanical permit: $150-$300 based on HVAC equipment
Electronic payment service fee: 2.35% (avoidable with cash/check)
Total Project Cost Breakdown
Design/Architecture
Low Range: $2,000
Average: $8,000
High Range: $15,000
Site Preparation
Low Range: $5,000
Average: $10,000
High Range: $20,000
Foundation
Low Range: $8,000
Average: $15,000
High Range: $25,000
Construction (400 sq ft)
Low Range: $60,000
Average: $90,000
High Range: $120,000
Construction (600 sq ft)
Low Range: $90,000
Average: $135,000
High Range: $180,000
MEP Systems
Low Range: $15,000
Average: $25,000
High Range: $40,000
Hurricane Windows/Doors
Low Range: $5,000
Average: $10,000
High Range: $18,000
Interior Finishes
Low Range: $10,000
Average: $20,000
High Range: $35,000
Total (400 sq ft)
Low Range: $95,000
Average: $158,000
High Range: $253,000
For comparison, Mesocore's Model E starts at $129,000 for a turnkey 410 sq ft unit with factory-installed electrical, plumbing, 6kW solar system, dual 10kWh batteries, 1,700-gallon rainwater collection, and 180 mph wind rating—representing significant value versus traditional site-built construction at $150-$300 per square foot.
Utility Connection Fees
Beyond permit fees, utility hookups add substantial costs:
Wastewater capacity fee: Approximately $1,200+ per residential unit
Water connection fees: Variable by project scope
Electrical meter installation: $500-$1,500 depending on configuration
Natural gas connection: Optional, $800-$2,000 if available
Off-Grid Alternative: Some jurisdictions like Palm Beach County have approved Mesocore ADUs to operate independently without utility hookups or separate meters. The integrated 6kW solar array with 20kWh battery storage can eliminate connection fees, meter costs, and ongoing utility expenses while maintaining full functionality. Verify this option with Port St. Lucie Building Department for potential cost savings.
Financing Simplifies Upfront Costs
Mesocore's partnership with Ocean Capital Lending provides financing options for ADU development, eliminating the need for complex construction loans or home equity lines while providing predictable monthly payments.
Florida Building Code and Hurricane Requirements for ADUs
Port St. Lucie's coastal location on Florida's Treasure Coast subjects all ADU construction to rigorous hurricane-resistant standards.
Hurricane-Resistant Construction Standards
All ADUs must meet 180 mph wind load requirements, exceeding Category 5 hurricane thresholds of 157 mph. This mandatory standard includes:
Impact-rated windows and doors: Must withstand 9-pound 2x4 board impacts at 50 feet per second
Reinforced structural connections: Engineered roof-to-wall connections resisting uplift forces
Hurricane straps and anchors: Continuous anchorage from foundation to roof framing
Wind-resistant roofing: Minimum 4 fasteners per shingle with specific installation standards
Foundation specifications: Concrete pier or slab systems with reinforced connections
The 8th Edition (2023) Florida Building Code mandates these requirements statewide, with enforcement through local building departments. Properties near the coast may face additional wind-borne debris region requirements.
Wind Mitigation and Insurance Benefits
Hurricane-resistant construction qualifying for Florida's wind mitigation program can reduce insurance premiums by 20-55%. Features providing discounts include:
Impact-rated windows and doors: 30% discount on wind portions
Roof-to-wall connections: 15-25% additional savings
Reinforced roof deck: 10-20% savings
Secondary water resistance: 5-10% savings
Mesocore's hurricane-resistant ADUs exceed code minimums with robotically welded steel cores and impact-rated windows, qualifying for maximum insurance discounts. The pre-engineered structure includes documented hurricane testing that accelerates permit approval.
Foundation Requirements for Port St. Lucie
ADU foundations must meet Florida Building Code specifications for soil conditions and wind loads. Options include:
Concrete slab: Monolithic pour with reinforced footings
Pier system: Eight or more concrete piers with grade beams (included in Mesocore base design)
Elevated foundations: Required in flood zones with proper anchoring
Foundation permits require separate inspection before concrete placement. Mesocore units ship with foundation specifications designed for Florida conditions, simplifying this phase.
Navigating State ADU Laws and Port St. Lucie's Position
Florida's evolving ADU legislation creates opportunities for Port St. Lucie homeowners as statewide reforms take effect.
States with Most Permissive ADU Laws
While Port St. Lucie operates under Florida regulations, understanding the national ADU landscape provides context:
California: Statewide ADU laws since 2017, with ADU permits increasing 1,421% from 2016-2021
Oregon: Mandates ADU allowance in most residential zones
Washington: State preemption of local ADU restrictions in urban areas
Texas: Growing ADU adoption in Austin, Houston, and Dallas
Florida's Position on ADU Regulations
Florida ranks #3 nationally in solar capacity with 20,167 MW installed and added 467,347 residents in 2024 representing 8.2% growth since 2020. The state faces a significant housing shortage with 2.4 million cost-burdened households and median home prices of $411,600.
Florida Statute 163.31771 requires all municipalities to adopt ADU ordinances by December 1, 2025, permitting ADUs in single-family residential zones. This mandate will likely:
Expand ADU availability throughout Port St. Lucie
Standardize setback and size requirements
Clarify owner-occupancy rules
Streamline permitting processes
The modular construction market reached $20.3 billion in 2024 representing 5.1% of total construction—tripling market share since 2015. Florida's pro-ADU legislation positions the state as a growth market for factory-built solutions.
Timeline: How Long Does ADU Permitting Take in Port St. Lucie?
Understanding realistic timelines prevents frustration and helps coordinate construction schedules.
Average Permit Processing Time
Total timeline: 3-4 months from application to construction start
Phase breakdown:
Zoning verification and pre-application: 1-2 weeks
Architectural plan preparation: 2-8 weeks
Building permit application review: 4-8 weeks
Plan revisions (if needed): 2-3 weeks per cycle
Permit issuance: 1-3 days after approval
Construction phase: 4-6 months for traditional site-built ADUs
Florida Statute 553.792 mandates approval, approval with conditions, or denial within 30-60 business days of completed applications. However, most projects receive revision requests during initial review, extending timelines.
Factors That Delay Approval
Common delay causes include:
Incomplete applications lacking digital seals
Missing documents or signatures
Plan revisions required by reviewers
High permit volume during spring/summer seasons
Complex projects requiring multiple department reviews
Deed restrictions or HOA approvals
How to Expedite Your ADU Permit
Strategies for faster processing:
Submit complete applications: Ensure all documents have proper digital seals and signatures
Schedule pre-application meetings: $430 investment prevents costly mistakes
Use licensed professionals: Architects and engineers familiar with Florida codes
Apply during off-season: Fall and winter typically have faster reviews
Consider expedited review: 50-100% additional fee reduces review to 7-10 business days
Mesocore's Timeline Advantage: While permit review takes 4-8 weeks regardless of construction method, Mesocore's 10-day installation completes on-site work in days versus 4-6 months for traditional construction. The unit arrives with all MEP systems pre-installed and Intertek-certified, allowing factory production to occur simultaneously with permit review. Once permits are approved, rapid installation begins immediately—transforming a typical 6-month construction process into a streamlined path to occupancy.
Finding ADUs for Sale and Licensed Contractors in Florida
Selecting the right builder determines both project quality and timeline success.
Prefab vs. Site-Built ADU Options
Site-built ADUs involve traditional construction with contractors building on your property from scratch. Advantages include complete customization and local contractor relationships, but timelines extend 7-15 months with weather delays and coordination challenges.
Factory-built modular ADUs manufacture units in controlled facilities before site delivery. Benefits include:
Quality control through factory inspections
Weather-independent production
Reduced on-site construction time
Pre-certified MEP systems
Consistent pricing and timelines
Evaluating ADU Manufacturers
When comparing ADU builders, verify:
State licensing: All contractors must hold Florida certification (verify at MyFloridaLicense.com)
Insurance and bonding: Adequate coverage protects homeowners
Florida Building Code compliance: IBC approval and DBPR registration
Hurricane ratings: Documented wind resistance testing
Warranty coverage: Manufacturer and workmanship guarantees
Delivery radius: Transportation costs increase beyond 250-400 miles
Florida-Specific ADU Builders
Licensed contractors serving Port St. Lucie include:
Florida Made Tiny Homes
License: CGC1535516 (Certified General Contractor)
Phone: (833) 340-8469
Service: Statewide Florida including Port St. Lucie
Specialties: Custom ADU design, full permitting coordination, 10-day installation for some models
Goshen Tiny Homes LLC
License: CRC1335198
Phone: (813) 955-7846
Service: Port St. Lucie and statewide Florida
Specialties: Studio ADUs from $75,000-$110,000, 14 models with 28+ floorplans, block/masonry construction
Always verify current license status before signing contracts, as Port St. Lucie no longer accepts local specialty contractor licenses as of July 1, 2025—all contractors must be state certified AND locally registered.
Financial Incentives and Tax Benefits for Port St. Lucie ADUs
Strategic use of tax incentives significantly improves ADU return on investment.
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (30%)
The federal government offers a 30% solar credit through 2032 on Form 5695 for integrated solar and battery systems. For Mesocore ADUs with 6kW solar arrays and dual 10kWh batteries valued at $15,000-$25,000, homeowners can claim $4,500-$7,500 in federal tax credits.
Florida's Renewable Energy Property Tax Exemption
Florida provides 0% sales tax on solar equipment and property tax exemption for renewable energy installations. Solar panels and battery systems don't increase your property's taxable value, reducing annual property tax bills while adding functionality.
Senior Occupancy Tax Benefits
Florida's "Granny Flat" property tax reduction offers up to 20% reduction of assessed value when senior relatives (62+) occupy the ADU. This benefit applies to multigenerational families using ADUs for aging parents or relatives.
Insurance Discounts
Hurricane mitigation features qualify for 20-55% wind premium discounts. Impact windows alone provide 30% discount on wind portions of insurance premiums. Mesocore's hurricane-rated ADUs qualify for maximum discounts, with annual savings of $500-$1,500 on insurance premiums.
Common ADU Permit Denials and How to Avoid Them
Understanding frequent pitfalls prevents costly mistakes and delays.
Top Reasons ADU Permits Get Rejected
Incomplete documentation: Applications without proper digital seals from licensed professionals get rejected immediately. Florida requires 3rd-party verifiable digital signatures equivalent to notarized signatures.
Setback violations: ADUs placed too close to property lines or existing structures violate zoning codes. Verify setback requirements during pre-application consultation.
Non-conforming structures: Attempting to convert structures that don't meet Florida Building Code without proper engineering leads to denials.
Missing parking requirements: ADUs typically require one off-street parking space meeting city standards.
Inadequate hurricane engineering: Plans lacking 180 mph wind load calculations or impact-rated window specifications face rejection.
The Variance and Appeals Process
If standard requirements cannot be met, homeowners may petition for variances through the Planning & Zoning Department. This process requires:
Demonstration of hardship
Evidence that variance won't negatively impact neighbors
Public hearing attendance
Additional fees and 2-3 month timeline extension
Most ADU projects should avoid needing variances through proper planning and pre-application consultation.
Working with Code Enforcement
Port St. Lucie enforces building codes strictly. Starting construction without permits results in:
Stop-work orders
Fines and penalties
Requirements to tear down non-compliant construction
Difficulty obtaining permits for future projects
Always obtain permits before beginning construction and keep permit placards visible at job sites.
Why Mesocore Simplifies Port St. Lucie ADU Permitting
For Port St. Lucie homeowners navigating the complex ADU permitting process, Mesocore's factory-built solution addresses the most challenging aspects of ADU development while providing features that exceed code minimums.
Streamlined Permitting Through Factory Certification
Mesocore units ship with complete Intertek certification for all factory-installed MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) systems. This third-party quality control inspection eliminates the need for rough-in plumbing, mechanical, and electrical inspections on-site in many jurisdictions—reducing total inspection requirements and accelerating construction timelines.
The Model E ADU arrives with IBC approval and Florida DBPR modular home program registration, providing documentation that streamlines Port St. Lucie's plan review process. Building inspectors can focus on foundation and site connections rather than reviewing entire structural and utility systems.
Hurricane Resilience Exceeding Requirements
While Port St. Lucie requires 180 mph wind ratings, Mesocore's robotically welded structural steel cores provide documented 180+ mph resistance exceeding Category 5 hurricane thresholds. The pre-engineered structure includes:
Impact-rated windows and doors meeting Florida Product Approval standards
Hurricane-grade connections throughout
Factory-tested structural integrity
Wind mitigation features qualifying for 20-55% insurance premium discounts
This built-in compliance eliminates the need for extensive custom hurricane engineering while providing peace of mind for coastal property owners.
Integrated Solar and Off-Grid Capability
Every Mesocore unit includes a 6kW solar panel array with 14 roof-mounted panels and dual 10kWh lithium-ion batteries providing 20kWh total storage. This integrated system delivers:
$1,500-$1,820 annual utility savings
30% federal solar tax credit eligibility ($4,500-$7,500 value)
Florida property tax exemption for renewable equipment
Potential off-grid operation approved in some Florida jurisdictions
The 1,700-gallon rainwater collection system with purification enables complete utility independence, potentially eliminating connection fees and ongoing expenses in jurisdictions permitting off-grid ADU operation.
10-Day Installation Timeline
Traditional ADU construction requires 4-6 months of on-site work subject to weather delays, contractor scheduling, and coordination challenges. Mesocore's factory-to-site model completes installation in approximately 10 days:
Factory production occurs simultaneously with permit review
Unit arrives as 20-foot shipping container
Crane placement on prepared foundation
Expansion to full 410 sq ft
Final connections and system activation
This accelerated timeline means faster rental income or family occupancy, transforming a 7-15 month traditional construction process into a streamlined 3-4 month total project including permitting.
Transparent, All-Inclusive Pricing
Starting at $129,000 for the Model E ADU, Mesocore provides turnkey delivery including:
Complete 410 sq ft structure with 1BR/1BA
Factory-installed electrical, plumbing, and HVAC
6kW solar system and 20kWh battery storage
1,700-gallon rainwater collection
Impact windows and doors
Hurricane-grade construction
Intertek certification
IBC and Florida Building Code compliance
This transparent pricing eliminates the uncertainty of traditional construction bids and change orders.
For Port St. Lucie homeowners seeking rental income, multigenerational housing, or sustainable living, Mesocore's modular ADU transforms Florida's complex permitting requirements into an achievable path to property value enhancement and housing flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build an ADU in Port St. Lucie?
Yes, all ADU construction in Port St. Lucie requires building permits from either the City Building Department (for properties within city limits) or St. Lucie County Building Department (for unincorporated areas). Homeowner-builder permits must be applied for in person per Florida Statute 489.103(7)(b), while licensed contractors can use online portals. Permits typically take 4-8 weeks for plan review plus construction timelines.
How much does an ADU permit cost in Port St. Lucie?
Building permit fees range from $360-$666 for base permits depending on ADU size, plus additional electrical ($150-$300), plumbing ($150-$300), and mechanical permits ($150-$300). Total permit costs typically represent 2-3% of overall construction costs, with additional expenses for utility connections, site preparation, and professional plan preparation.
Can I build an ADU on any residential lot in Port St. Lucie?
ADU eligibility depends on zoning district, lot size, and location within city limits or unincorporated county. Florida law requires Port St. Lucie to adopt ADU ordinances by December 1, 2025, potentially expanding availability to all single-family zones. Contact the Planning & Zoning Department at (772) 871-5212 to verify your property's eligibility before investing in design work.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit approved in Port St. Lucie?
Permit processing typically takes 4-8 weeks for initial plan review, with most projects requiring 1-2 revision cycles adding 2-3 weeks each. Total timeline from application to construction start averages 3-4 months. Traditional site-built construction adds 4-6 months, while Mesocore's 10-day installation completes once permits are approved.
Does Florida allow accessory dwelling units statewide?
Yes, Florida Statute 163.31771 requires all municipalities to adopt ADU ordinances by December 1, 2025, permitting ADUs in single-family residential zones. This statewide mandate will significantly expand ADU availability throughout Florida, though current local regulations may still restrict where ADUs can be built until ordinances take effect.
What size ADU can I build in Port St. Lucie without variances?
Maximum ADU sizes vary by zoning district and lot dimensions, with setback requirements changing based on structure size. Typical thresholds occur at 750 square feet where setback requirements increase. Contact the Planning & Zoning Department with your specific property information to determine maximum buildable size without requiring variances. Mesocore's 410 sq ft Model E typically falls well within standard requirements for most residential lots.
