Accessory Structures in Rochester, NY (2026)
8 verified accessory structures rules for Rochester, New York, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Rochester has been expanding ADU allowances as part of zoning reform efforts. Accessory dwelling units may be permitted in certain residential districts. ADUs must meet building code standards for habitable space and comply with size and setback requirements.
Rochester ADU Rules & Accessory Dwelling Unit Regulations
Some RestrictionsADU Permits
Rochester permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in residential zones under Chapter 120 (Zoning Code) of the City Code, with a building permit, zoning compliance certificate, and conformance with the 2020 NY State Uniform Code (19 NYCRR Part 1220 et seq.) required. The city operates an ADU pilot program offering reimbursement of city fees and indirect costs up to $20,000.
Rochester ADU Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Rochester does not levy a separate residential impact fee for ADUs. Applicants pay standard building permit fees set by the Bureau of Buildings and Zoning under Chapter 39 of the City Code, and the ADU pilot program reimburses qualifying owners up to $20,000 to offset those fees and other indirect costs.
Rochester ADU Impact Fees
Few RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Rochester's Chapter 120 zoning treatment of ADUs in single-family districts has historically expected the owner to occupy either the principal dwelling or the ADU. Owners receiving ADU pilot program funds must additionally meet program occupancy and rent-restriction conditions for 3 years.
Rochester ADU Owner-Occupancy Rules
Some RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Rochester allows long-term rental of permitted ADUs subject to Chapter 120 (Zoning) and Chapter 90 (Property Conservation Code) standards. Short-term rentals of an ADU require a city Short-Term Rental Registration ($150/year) and inspection, and pilot-program ADUs must keep rents at fair-market levels for 3 years.
Rochester ADU Rental Restrictions
Some RestrictionsShed Rules
Rochester regulates accessory structures through the zoning code. Small sheds under 120 square feet may be exempt from building permits. Larger structures require permits and must meet setback requirements. All accessory structures must be in rear or side yards.
Rochester Shed Rules & Outbuilding Regulations
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Garage conversions to living space in Rochester require a building permit and must meet NYS Residential Code standards. The property must maintain required off-street parking after the conversion. If creating a separate unit, ADU regulations apply.
Rochester Garage Conversion Rules & Requirements
Some RestrictionsCarport Rules
Rochester's Zoning Code Chapter 120 treats carports as accessory structures. Detached carports must be located in the rear yard, attached carports may also occupy the side yard, and detached accessory structures in R-1, R-2, and R-3 districts require a 10-foot rear yard setback under Article XX (§ 120-163).
accessory-structures/carport-rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Monroe County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Rochester city rules.
Accessory Structures in Monroe County →