Winter Park takes a narrower approach than Orlando. As of October 2026, its building department uses a recorded deed restriction for guest houses and garage apartments that bars renting the unit, bars a kitchen or cooking facilities and bars separate utility meters. In the R-2 district, the code also allows a cottage dwelling next to the main house.
What does the Winter Park guest house restriction say?
The city's declaration form for a guest house or garage apartment states that the unit:
- may not be rented, leased or hired out for direct or indirect pay;
- may not have a kitchen area, cooking facilities or separate utility meters;
- may be used only to house guests, servants or family members of the people living in the main house.
The restriction runs with the property and binds later owners. The form describes a permit for a unit of 1,000 sq ft or less.
So what can I build in Winter Park?
For most single-family owners, a guest suite for family or visitors without a full kitchen, either detached or above a garage. It will not be a rental unit. For a parent or adult child, that can be enough: a bedroom, a bath and a sitting area a short walk from the main house.
What is a cottage dwelling in R-2?
In the R-2 district, the zoning code lists cottage dwellings alongside principal dwellings. For lots 70 feet wide or less, as of October 2026, a cottage needs at least 500 sq ft of living area and can reach a floor area ratio of 20%. The house and cottage together can reach 50%, with the main house kept larger, and the cottage needs one parking space. An existing garage can be enlarged along its existing setbacks to add a one-story cottage, with at least 5 feet to the side or rear line.
What else matters on a Winter Park lot?
- Lakes. The city has many lakefront lots, where shoreline setbacks shape the buildable area.
- Trees. Mature canopy is common; tree rules can move a footprint.
- Older homes. Electrical service and drainage often need upgrades to support a second unit.
Is Winter Park part of Orlando?
No. Winter Park is its own city in Orange County, with its own building and planning departments. The City of Orlando's ADU incentive does not apply there. See why Florida cities differ so much.