Accessory Structures in Buffalo, NY (2026)
9 verified accessory structures rules for Buffalo, New York, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Buffalo Unified Development Ordinance (Green Code) permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in most residential zones. ADUs must be on lots at least 2,500 sq ft, occupy no more than 800 sq ft, and meet parking and design standards. Owner-occupancy of the primary dwelling is required.
Accessory Structures: Adu Rules
Some RestrictionsADU Permits
Buffalo permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) under the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), known as the Green Code, codified at Chapter 496 of the Buffalo City Code. Detached, attached, and internal ADUs are recognized configurations. Applicants must obtain building, plumbing, electrical, and zoning approvals through the Department of Permit and Inspection Services and comply with the New York State Uniform Code.
Buffalo ADU Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Buffalo does not levy a dedicated ADU impact fee. The City charges standard building, plumbing, electrical, and gas permit fees through the Department of Permit and Inspection Services, scaled to construction valuation. Water and sewer connection charges through the Buffalo Sewer Authority and Buffalo Water apply only when new service is installed for the ADU.
Buffalo ADU Impact Fees
Few RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Buffalo requires that the property owner occupy either the primary dwelling or the accessory dwelling unit as their principal residence. This owner-occupancy mandate applies at the time of permit issuance and on a continuing basis. Investor-only ADU configurations where no owner lives on the lot are not allowed under the current Green Code framework.
Buffalo ADU Owner-Occupancy Requirement
Heavy RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Buffalo ADUs may be rented for long-term residential occupancy (six months or more) by the owner-occupant. Short-term rentals (less than six months) are governed separately by Chapter 380 of the Buffalo City Code, which requires registration through the Department of Permit and Inspection Services. Non-owner-occupied STR operation requires a special use permit approved by the Common Council.
Buffalo ADU Rental and Short-Term Restrictions
Some RestrictionsShed Rules
Sheds up to 144 square feet in Buffalo may be installed without a building permit but still must meet setback and rear-yard coverage rules. Larger sheds require a building permit from Permit and Inspection Services.
Accessory Structures: Shed Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Garage conversions to habitable space or ADUs are allowed in Buffalo with a building permit, Certificate of Occupancy amendment, and compliance with egress, insulation, and ceiling-height rules. Historic districts require extra review.
Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions
Some RestrictionsCarport Rules
Carports in Buffalo are treated as accessory structures. Permanent carports require a building permit; temporary fabric carports are generally disallowed as long-term installations. Setback and coverage rules match those for garages and sheds.
Accessory Structures: Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsTiny Homes
Tiny homes on permanent foundations may be permitted in Buffalo as primary dwellings or ADUs if they meet NYS Building Code minimums. Tiny homes on wheels (THOWs) are treated as recreational vehicles and cannot be used as permanent residences.
Accessory Structures: Tiny Homes
Some RestrictionsLooking for Erie County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Buffalo city rules.
Accessory Structures in Erie County →