Accessory dwelling and guesthouse feasibility in Palm Beach County
An accessory dwelling, guesthouse or second unit requires a parcel specific review of allowed uses, district and supplemental standards, prior approvals, density and building requirements. For unincorporated property start with ULDC Articles 3, 4 and 5 and obtain zoning confirmation or preapplication review. Check the intended occupancy or rental use, parking, utilities and septic capacity. Municipal rules are separate. The presence of an existing outbuilding or a Property Appraiser use code is not permission to create a dwelling.
Steps
- 1
Confirm the exact site and local authority
Resolve the address and PCN, then use municipal rules within city limits and County rules only for unincorporated property.
discover.pbc.gov/pzb/building/Pages/Permit-Center.aspx - 2
Check project requirements before filing
An accessory dwelling, guesthouse or second unit requires a parcel specific review of allowed uses, district and supplemental standards, prior approvals, density and building requirements. For unincorporated property start with ULDC Articles 3, 4 and 5 and obtain zoning confirmation or preapplication review. Check the intended occupancy or rental use, parking, utilities and septic capacity. Municipal rules are separate. The presence of an existing outbuilding or a Property Appraiser use code is not permission to create a dwelling.
discover.pbc.gov/pzb/zoning/Pages/ULDC.aspx - 3
Prepare the current official application and supporting documents
Use the selected official checklist and project specific forms. Confirm plans, survey, ownership authorization, contractor or license details and required overlay approvals with the responsible office.
discover.pbc.gov/pzb/zoning/Pages/Applications-Forms.aspx - 4
File, obtain approvals and complete inspections
Submit to the responsible authority, pay its assessed fees, respond to review comments and complete the required inspections. Do not begin work or operation before the applicable permit, occupancy or license approvals.
discover.pbc.gov/pzb/zoning/Pages/ULDC.aspx
Requirements
- Exact premises address and parcel control number
- Project scope and responsible local authority
- Current official checklist and applicable overlay approvals
Documents
- Applicant and owner authorization information
- Plans and supporting materials required by the selected official application
Fees
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Government review, permit or license fees | Project specific; obtain current authority calculation | County building schedule applies only to County permits. Municipal and state fees are separate. |
Good to know
Use exact local jurisdiction. County forms are scoped to unincorporated property; confirm the city forms at its published destination.