Buffalo Green Code sets maximum lot coverage by N-Zone to preserve open space and manage stormwater for Lake Erie watershed. Typical residential coverage 40-60 percent.
Lot coverage (percentage of lot occupied by buildings) in Buffalo is regulated by Green Code N-Zone. N-3R (Single Family) allows 40 percent coverage; N-2R (Residential) allows 50 percent; N-2C (Mixed-Use) allows 70 percent; N-1D (Downtown) allows up to 100 percent. Impervious surface including driveways, patios, and pools counts toward coverage in some zones for stormwater purposes. Green Code promotes permeable paving and bioswales to reduce runoff to Lake Erie and the Buffalo River. Additions and accessory structures must keep total coverage within limits. Corner lots and irregular parcels have specific calculation methods.
Excess coverage: zoning violation, stop-work order, removal of overbuilt portions, or variance. Fines 100-500 dollars.
Buffalo, NY
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Buffalo, NY
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Buffalo, NY
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Buffalo, NY
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Buffalo, NY
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Buffalo, NY
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See how Buffalo's lot coverage limits rules stack up against other locations.
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