Colonie, NY Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)

Section 190-26B of the Colonie Land Use Law lets structures accessory to a single-family or two-family dwelling occupy up to 40% of the rear yard. Any such structure sited in the rear yard and under 16 feet in height can be built with a five-foot setback from a rear or side lot line, rather than the larger setback that applies to the principal dwelling. Section 190-26C(6), added in 2011 and amended in 2014, separately allows one portable storage structure on a single-family or two-family lot without an active building permit for up to six months.

That structure cannot exceed 160 square feet in area or 10 feet in height, may carry no mechanical, plumbing, or electrical connections, and must sit at least five feet from the side, rear, and front property lines and at least five feet from any other structure on the lot, without encroaching on public property or a right-of-way. A shed that exceeds 40% of the rear yard, sits closer than five feet to a lot line, or a portable container kept past six months or oversized beyond 160 square feet/10 feet, falls outside these exceptions and needs a variance or a standard building permit reviewed against the Dimensional Table.

The Building Department administers and enforces Article IV of Chapter 190 under § 190-28, and violations are chargeable as zoning offenses under § 190-129, with fines escalating from up to $350 for a first offense to $700-$1,000 for a third or later offense.