Buffalo Green Code (Unified Development Ordinance) sets setbacks by zone district using form-based coding. Typical residential front setbacks range from 0-25 feet depending on neighborhood character zone.
Buffalo adopted the Green Code in 2017, a form-based zoning code that sets setbacks based on neighborhood character zones (N-Zones) rather than traditional Euclidean zoning. N-1D (Downtown) allows 0-foot setbacks; N-2R (Residential) requires 10-25 foot front setbacks matching adjacent buildings (contextual setback); N-3R (Single Family) requires 15-30 foot front setbacks. Side setbacks typically 3-10 feet. Rear setbacks 20 feet minimum. Corner lots have two front setbacks. Accessory structures have reduced setback requirements. Variances available through the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Setback violation: stop-work order, removal, or variance application. Fines 100-500 dollars plus correction costs.
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 setback rules rules stack up against other locations.
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