Altamonte Springs is a Seminole County city with its own land development code. As of October 2026, its rules for accessory buildings keep them in the rear yard, at least 7 feet from side and rear property lines, and generally no taller than 15 feet. Whether a separate rental unit is allowed on your lot depends on the district, which we confirm with the city.
What do the accessory building rules say?
From the city's supplemental district regulations:
- In residential districts, accessory structures may go in rear yards but not in front or side yards.
- They must sit at least 7 feet from side and rear property lines and generally cannot exceed 15 feet in height.
- Buildings that house people, such as guest houses, cannot sit in any required yard and cannot be taller than the main house.
- On corner and through lots, accessory structures stay out of front yards but may use one side yard.
- On waterfront lots, most accessory structures must be at least 20 feet from the mean high water line.
Can I rent a backyard unit in Altamonte Springs?
We did not find a city rule that clearly allows a separately rented ADU in single-family districts, so we do not assume one. A guest house for family is the more common request. If your lot is in a district that allows two units, the options widen. We check your district in the lot check and ask the city in writing when the code is unclear.
What usually matters on an Altamonte Springs lot?
- Lakes. Lake Orienta, Spring Lake and other lakes bring the 20-foot water setback into play.
- Rear yard depth. With 7-foot side and rear spacing and the house setback, shallow lots leave little room.
- Height. The 15-foot accessory limit usually means a one-story unit.
Is Altamonte Springs under Orlando's rules?
No. It is a separate city in Seminole County, so the City of Orlando's ADU code and incentive do not apply. Unincorporated areas nearby follow Seminole County's code. See how Florida leaves ADUs to local governments.