Can I add an accessory dwelling unit?

Generally, no. Cape Coral's Land Development Code does not have a citywide accessory dwelling unit (ADU) program. The only accessory living structure recognized in the code is a detached guest house, and it is permitted only in the Residential Estate (RE) zoning district: capped at 1 story and 14 feet tall, no more than 30 percent of the primary home's area or 800 square feet (whichever is less), no more than 2 bedrooms, and it cannot have a kitchen or any electrical or gas hookup for a stove or oven. A guest house is not a rentable dwelling unit; it provides guest accommodations only, and it requires one extra parking space. Garage conversions elsewhere in the city require a replacement garage to be built first and must meet all building code requirements for living space; they do not create a legally separate second dwelling unit. If a parcel is not zoned RE, there is currently no code path to a detached ADU; confirm any exceptions with City Planning before proceeding.