ADU rules in Monroe County, NY — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
ADU regulations in Monroe County are set by individual towns and the City of Rochester. No statewide ADU mandate exists in New York. Unincorporated Monroe County areas follow county zoning — ADUs typically require a special use permit or variance.
New York State has not enacted a statewide ADU mandate (unlike California). ADU regulations in Monroe County are controlled by each municipality's zoning code. The City of Rochester and surrounding towns each have their own ADU standards for lot size, setbacks, unit size, owner-occupancy requirements, and permitting. In unincorporated Monroe County areas subject to county zoning, ADUs generally require a special use permit or variance reviewed by the county Planning & Development department. Properties near county or state roads may need to refer zoning actions to Monroe County Planning & Development. Statewide ADU legislation has been proposed multiple times but has not passed as of 2025. Contact Monroe County Planning (585-753-2000) or your specific town's zoning office for current requirements.
Building an ADU without required permits can result in stop-work orders, fines, and required demolition.
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See how Monroe County's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
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