ADU rules in Utica, NY — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Utica permits one ADU per single- or two-family dwelling. The owner must occupy either the main house or the ADU as a primary residence, and the ADU may not exceed 800 square feet of gross floor area.
The 2021 Zoning Code allows one ADU per single-family dwelling or one per two-family dwelling; ADUs are barred on lots with a multi-family or apartment building. The property owner must occupy the primary dwelling or the ADU as their primary residence. In the R1 district the ADU must be within the principal structure or in an accessory structure attached to it, with only one entrance facing the front lot line. An ADU may be accessed from an alley but not by a separate driveway, and no major (Type 2) home occupation is allowed inside an ADU. Adequate parking must be provided.
Building without required zoning approval or exceeding 800 sq ft violates the Zoning Code, enforced by the Commissioner of Code Enforcement; correction orders and fines apply.
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