🏡 Sarasota County Zoning FAQ: RSF-1, RSF-2, AC-6, AC-10 (Including North Port)
📍 Does Sarasota or North Port Zoning Apply?
If your property is inside City of North Port limits, the North Port Unified Land Development Code (ULDC) applies. If you’re in the unincorporated area, follow the Sarasota County Unified Development Code (UDC).
📌 Not sure which applies? Call zoning to confirm based on your parcel:
Sarasota Zoning: 941-861-5000
North Port Planning: 941-429-7044
→ Find zoning map
🚐 Can I Live in an RV or Mobile Home?
RRSF-1❌ Not allowed
RSF-2❌ Not allowed
AC-6❌ Not allowed
AC-10❌ Not allowed
You cannot live in an RV on your land in these zones, even temporarily, unless you have a permit during construction.
Mobile homes (HUD-certified) are not permitted in RSF or AC zones. Only modular homes (built to Florida Building Code) are allowed.
📖 Source – North Port ULDC §53-125
🏠 What Kind of Home Can I Build in RSF-1 or RSF-2?
Both RSF-1 and RSF-2 allow one site-built or modular single-family home per lot.
Zoning: RSF-1 // RSF-2
Minimum Lot Size: ~10,000 sq ft / RSF2~27,500
Max Height: 35 ft Single-family only // 35 ft Single-family only
Home Type Single-family only // Single-family only
No duplexes, RVs, mobile homes, or multi-family units allowed here.
📏 What Are the Setback Rules?
Typical RSF-2 (North Port) setbacks:
Front: 25 ft
Sides: 7.5 ft
Rear: 25 ft
(County is similar for RSF-1: 25 / 10 / 25 ft)
Accessory sheds and garages must stay within these rules too.
📖 Source – ULDC §53-128
🏢 What’s Allowed in AC-6 and AC-10 Zones?
These are mixed-use Activity Center zones used in North Port — not residential-only.
Zone: AC-6
Home Allowed?: ✅ Maybe*
Commercial Allowed? ✅ Yes
Notes: High-intensity zone w/ design standards
Zone AC-10
Home Allowed?: ✅ Yes
Commercial Allowed? ✅ Yes
Notes: Allows homes, offices, storage, med use
✔️ AC-10 allows you to build a home or operate a business.
🛑 AC zones may require site plan approval and follow a special design manual.
📖 Source – North Port Planning Dept
🧰 Can I Run a Business from My RSF Home?
Yes — but only quiet, no-impact home businesses.
✔️ Online business, consulting, bookkeeping
❌ No auto shops, hair salons, retail, signage, or on-site customers.
💧 Do I Need Septic? What About Water or Power?
Most RSF lots = septic + well, unless public water/sewer is available.
Many AC-zoned areas are expected to use city utilities.
Solar is okay, but electrical systems must meet code.
Ask the city or county to confirm utility hookup options for your lot.
📞 Zoning Department Contacts
Sarasota County Planning & Zoning
📍 1001 Sarasota Center Blvd, Sarasota, FL
📞 941-861-5000
📧 zoning@scgov.net
🔗 Sarasota Zoning Info
City of North Port Planning Division
📍 4970 City Hall Blvd, North Port, FL
📞 941-429-7044
🔗 North Port Planning
🗓️ Info current, and accurate to the best of my knowledge as of 5/12/25. Always confirm zoning with the city or county before acting — rules do change, and this guide is just a starting point.