🏡 Highlands County FL Zoning: R-1 Rules for Mobile Homes, RVs, and Building
🏠 What Is R-1 Zoning?
R-1A in Highlands County is a residential zoning district that allows a variety of housing types on smaller lots.
You can place:
✅ Site-built homes
✅ Modular homes (must meet Florida Building Code)
✅ Mobile/manufactured homes (HUD-approved)
This makes R-1A very flexible for personal use and affordable housing options.
📖 Source: https://www.highlandsfl.gov/departments/planning_and_zoning.php
🚐 Can I Live in an RV Here?
⛔ Not permanently.
You can’t use an RV as a full-time residence in R-1A.
✅ However, you can apply for a Temporary Use Permit to live in an RV while you’re actively building a home.
To qualify, you’ll need:
A building permit
Septic installed
A timeframe (usually 6–12 months max)
There’s no permit for long-term RV living without construction.
📖 More info: https://www.highlandsfl.gov/departments/building.php
🏡 Can I Put a Mobile or Modular Home?
✅ Yes — both are allowed in R-1A.
Mobile homes must:
Be HUD-compliant (post-1976)
Be permitted and installed to code
Be on a permanent foundation with skirting and tie-downs
Modular homes are treated the same as site-built homes if they meet Florida Building Code.
Always check with permitting before purchasing a home for the lot.
📏 What Are the Setback and Lot Size Rules?
In R-1A zoning:
Minimum lot width is 75 feet
Minimum lot size is 7,500 square feet
Front setback: 25 feet
Side setbacks: 7.5 feet
Rear setback: 20 feet
If your lot is irregular, narrow, or a corner lot, call zoning to verify adjusted setbacks.
🛠️ Can I Build a Shed or Have Animals?
✔️ Sheds, garages, carports, and other accessory buildings are allowed — just follow setback rules and local permitting.
🐔 Personal animals (like dogs, cats, chickens) may be allowed in limited numbers, depending on lot size and location.
🐄 Farm animals and commercial agriculture are not allowed in R-1A.
📞 Zoning Contact Info – Highlands County
Planning & Zoning Department
📍 501 S. Commerce Ave, Sebring, FL
📞 (863) 402-6650
📧 Email contact via web form
🔗 https://www.highlandsfl.gov/departments/planning_and_zoning.php
🗓️ Info current as of May 12, 2025. Zoning codes can change — always check with the county before building, placing a mobile home, or applying for an RV permit.