Buffalo, NY Accessory Structures: Tiny Homes (2026)
Tiny home rules in Buffalo, NY, covering tiny houses on wheels (THOWs), park model RVs, and tiny home on foundation builds, determine where they are legal and how they get permitted.
Key Facts
- Maximum time without permit
- 48 hours
- Permit issuer
- Commissioner of Permit and Inspection Services
- Water/sewer connection required
- Yes: must connect to public water and City sanitary sewer
- Permit revocability
- Revocable at any time by Commissioner or Common Council
Summary
Automobiles and trailers (including tiny homes on wheels) may not be occupied as a residence or business in Buffalo for more than 48 hours without a city permit. A permit will not be issued unless the unit connects to public water and sanitary sewer and has adequate sanitation and lighting.
Chapter 459. Trailers § 459-1. Use as a residence or business. No person, firm or corporation shall occupy as a place of residence or business any automobile or trailer in the City of Buffalo for a period longer than 48 hours unless a permit for such use shall be obtained from the Commissioner of Permit and Inspection Services. Such permit for such longer use shall not be issued unless the automobile or trailer for which a permit to use is sought shall be provided with adequate water closets, properly lighted and ventilated, which shall be connected with the public water service and the City's sanitary sewer. Such permit shall provide that it may be revoked by the Commissioner of Permit and Inspection Services or the Common Council of the City of Buffalo at any time and shall be subject to such other or further regulations as the Commissioner of Permit and Inspection Services may impose.
Full Breakdown
Buffalo City Code § 459-1 prohibits occupying any automobile or trailer as a residence or business for longer than 48 hours without a permit from the Commissioner of Permit and Inspection Services. A permit is only issued if the trailer or automobile has adequate water closets, is properly lighted and ventilated, and is connected to the public water system and the City's sanitary sewer. The permit may be revoked by the Commissioner or the Common Council at any time and is subject to additional regulations as the Commissioner may impose.
Violations & Fines
The permit may be revoked at any time by the Commissioner of Permit and Inspection Services or the Common Council. Violation of the chapter's requirements is subject to penalties under the general City Code enforcement provisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I live in a tiny home on wheels or RV long-term in Buffalo?
Can my permit to live in a trailer be taken away?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Buffalo
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