Garage Conversion to ADU in Clearwater: Step-by-Step
Converting your garage into an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a smart way to add value, income, or living space to your property in Clearwater or St. Petersburg, Florida. In these Pinellas County cities, where housing demand is high and coastal lifestyles thrive, a garage conversion can transform unused space into a legal rental unit, guest suite, or home office.
Costs are typically lower than building a new detached ADU, and the process leverages existing structures for efficiency. This guide provides a complete step-by-step process, timeline, and cost breakdown for Florida garage conversions in 2025, tailored to Clearwater and St. Pete regulations. With no major statewide changes this year, local codes remain key—always verify with city planning departments.
What is a Garage Conversion ADU?
A garage conversion ADU turns your existing garage into a self-contained living space with a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and separate entrance. In Florida, it must comply with the Florida Building Code for safety, including hurricane resistance. Unlike new builds, conversions reuse foundations and walls, saving time and money.
In Clearwater and St. Pete, these are popular for owner-occupants seeking rental income (minimum 30-31 day stays) or multigenerational housing.
Benefits: Garage conversions can boost property value by up to 30% and offer potential tax exemptions for housing elderly family members (age 62+).
Eligibility and Key Regulations
Eligibility varies slightly between Clearwater and St. Pete, but both require owner-occupancy and adherence to zoning.
In Clearwater
Zoning: Allowed in Low Density Residential (LDR), Low Medium Density Residential (LMDR), Medium Density Residential (MDR), and some nonresidential districts like Commercial or Office.
Size Limits: Maximum 750 square feet or 50% of the primary home's gross floor area, whichever is smaller.
Other Rules: One ADU per parcel. Owner must live in the primary home or ADU. Short-term rentals banned in residential zones; long-term only (31 days+). Conversions must match the home's architecture and comply with building codes.
Garage-Specific: Conversions are permitted, but ensure egress, plumbing, and electrical meet codes. No wheels or temporary structures.
In St. Petersburg
Zoning: Permitted in Neighborhood Traditional (NT) on lots of 4,500+ sq ft, or Neighborhood Suburban (NS) on 10,000+ sq ft (or alleys/corners). Check via city map tool or email.
Size Limits: Up to 800 square feet or 67% of the primary home's size, whichever is less.
Other Rules: Owner-occupant required. Short-term rentals limited to three times per year. Must provide one extra parking space (on-site, alley preferred). Stormwater management mandatory.
Garage-Specific: For front-facing attached garages, remove the door, match architecture, add a 3-foot green yard between wall and pavement, and ensure all parking stays on property.
In both cities, check HOA rules and flood maps (common in Pinellas). Low-income homeowners in certain areas may qualify for grants up to 40% of value.
Step-by-Step Process for Garage Conversion
The process is similar in both cities, taking 3-6 months. Start with verification, end with occupancy.
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
Enter your address in the city's online mapping tool (Clearwater: Check zoning; St. Pete: ADU Map Look-up). Email planning departments if unsure—DevRev@stpete.org for St. Pete.
Step 2: Plan and Design
Hire an architect or engineer for plans, including site survey, energy calculations, and scaled drawings. Ensure kitchen, bath, and entrance. Match home style; add insulation, windows for light, and HVAC. For Florida climate, include impact-resistant features.
Step 3: Apply for Zoning Approval
- Clearwater: Submit Flexible Standard Development (FLS) Level One Application online ($200 fee). Administrative review by Development Review Committee—no hearing. Include Owner Occupancy Affidavit.
- St. Pete: No separate zoning app; proceed to permits, but confirm via email.
Step 4: Submit Building Permit
Use online systems (Clearwater: Online portal; St. Pete: ePlan). Include plans, survey, and fees. Review takes 3-5 business days in St. Pete; similar in Clearwater. Hire a licensed contractor (or self-build under Florida Statute 489 exemptions).
Step 5: Construction
Demo garage elements (door, if front-facing), add plumbing/electrical, insulate, and finish interiors. Inspections at key stages (foundation, rough-in, final).
Step 6: Final Inspections and Occupancy
Pass inspections, get Certificate of Occupancy. Add separate meters/address if desired. Register for rental tax if applicable.
Timeline Breakdown
- Planning/Design: 1-2 months (gather docs, hire pros)
- Approvals/Permits: 2-4 weeks (reviews quick, but revisions add time)
- Construction: 1-3 months (faster than new builds; depends on scope)
- Total: 3-6 months
Delays from flood requirements or inspections are common in Florida. Start in off-season to avoid hurricane disruptions.
Cost Breakdown for Florida Garage Conversions
Garage conversions cost $50,000-$150,000 in Pinellas County, or $150-$300 per square foot—cheaper than detached ADUs ($160k+). Factors include size (400-800 sq ft typical), finishes, utilities, and flood-proofing.
| Cost Category | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Permits/Fees | $1,000 - $1,500 |
| Design/Planning | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Plumbing | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Electrical | $3,000 - $8,000 |
| Insulation/Finishes | $10,000 - $30,000 |
| HVAC | $5,000 - $15,000 |
| Utilities/Site Prep | $5,000 - $15,000 |
| Total (500 sq ft basic) | $75,000 - $100,000 |
| Total (Luxury finish) | $120,000+ |
Note: Hurricane-resistant features add 10-20% to costs. Fee waivers for units under 750 sq ft in St. Pete can save ~$7,000.
ROI: Rent for $1,200-$2,000/month covers costs quickly. Financing via HELOCs or renovation loans; tax exemptions available for family use.
Design Ideas for Clearwater and St. Pete Conversions
Maximize space in humid Florida with these design tips:
- Open layouts with Murphy beds and built-ins to maximize floor space
- Large windows for natural breezes and screened porches for outdoor living
- Moisture-resistant materials like tile floors for Florida's humidity
- Studio setups work well; add lofts for extra storage
- Blend with your home—paint to match, add landscaping for privacy
- Energy-efficient AC and solar panels cut bills in sunny Pinellas
Conclusion
Converting your garage to an ADU in Clearwater or St. Pete is a feasible project that enhances your property while addressing Florida's housing needs. With costs under $150,000 and a 3-6 month timeline, it's accessible for many homeowners.
Start by checking eligibility online, consult professionals, and budget for local codes. This investment can yield income or family space—contact your city's planning department today to begin!
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