Coral Springs city leaders plan to discuss potential zoning changes to allow homeowners to build mother-in-law suites
Coral Springs, Florida – City officials in Coral Springs are considering potential changes to local zoning regulations to allow homeowners to build mother-in-law suites, also known as accessory dwelling units (ADUs), as part of ongoing efforts to address the city’s affordable housing challenges. The discussion is scheduled to take place at a city commission retreat on Wednesday, where leaders will review preliminary analyses and potential strategies for implementation.
Mother-in-law suites are self-contained living spaces that can be attached to or detached from the main residence, typically featuring a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. Currently, Coral Springs only permits detached additions or second kitchens on properties that are one acre or larger, limiting the ability of many homeowners to add these types of units.
According to a preliminary analysis conducted by city officials, at least 65% of the 22,500 residential properties in Coral Springs could potentially meet common standards for mother-in-law suites. However, city staff emphasized that a more detailed study is needed to determine the most appropriate locations and methods for allowing these units.
Several nearby cities in Broward County, including Miramar, Pembroke Pines, Plantation, and Tamarac, already permit homeowners to build ADUs. Conversely, cities such as Coconut Creek, Deerfield Beach, and Hollywood currently do not allow them, highlighting the varying approaches to affordable housing across the region.
To streamline the process for homeowners, city staff plan to propose creating a library of pre-designed and approved plans for ADUs. These plans would provide step-by-step instructions, enabling property owners to navigate the permitting process more efficiently while reducing costs. Officials are also considering additional incentives, such as grants to cover site preparation, architectural design, permit fees, property surveys, and other expenses associated with building mother-in-law suites.
City leaders are mindful of the broader regulatory and financial context. Broward County’s affordable housing initiatives and potential changes to state laws will play a role in shaping any zoning modifications in Coral Springs. By carefully reviewing these factors, officials hope to design a policy framework that balances housing affordability with neighborhood compatibility and safety standards.
The city staff recommends a continued study of the issue over the next two fiscal years, allowing ample time to gather public feedback, analyze data, and develop actionable policies. This approach aims to ensure that any future zoning changes are both practical for homeowners and beneficial for the community at large.
“This discussion reflects our commitment to exploring creative solutions for housing affordability,” said a city official familiar with the plans. “Mother-in-law suites offer an opportunity to provide flexible, affordable housing options while allowing residents to stay in their communities.”
If approved, the zoning changes could give homeowners a new avenue to generate income, accommodate extended family, or provide housing for local workers, addressing multiple community needs simultaneously. City officials emphasize that the process will be carefully phased to ensure equitable access and responsible development.
As Coral Springs considers these potential changes, the city continues to monitor developments in other Broward County municipalities and across the state, seeking best practices that could inform local policy. With thoughtful planning and community input, the introduction of mother-in-law suites may become a key component of Coral Springs’ strategy to meet affordable housing demands while preserving the character of its neighborhoods.
