Accessory Structures in Syracuse, NY (2026)
8 verified accessory structures rules for Syracuse, New York, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Syracuse allows accessory dwelling units under the ReZone zoning ordinance. ADUs are permitted in residential districts with size and design standards.
Syracuse ADU Rules
Some RestrictionsADU Permits
Syracuse permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by right in residential zones R1, R2, R3, and R4 under ReZone Syracuse (the City of Syracuse Zoning Ordinance, effective July 1, 2023, amended July 2024). One ADU is allowed per single-family property; a building permit, zoning compliance review, and conformance with the NY State Uniform Code (19 NYCRR Parts 1219-1228) are required.
Syracuse ADU Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Syracuse does not levy a separate residential impact fee for ADUs. Applicants pay standard building permit fees collected by the Division of Code Enforcement and any applicable Onondaga County Water Environment Protection sewer connection charges if new utility connections are required.
Syracuse ADU Impact Fees
Few RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
ReZone Syracuse requires the property owner to occupy either the principal dwelling or the ADU at all times for properties using the by-right ADU allowance in R1-R4 residential districts. A non-occupant landlord cannot operate both units as separate rentals without converting the property to a permitted two-family use under the underlying zoning.
Syracuse ADU Owner-Occupancy Rules
Heavy RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Syracuse allows long-term rental of a permitted ADU subject to the Rental Registry Certificate under Chapter 27, Article 9 ($150 registration, inspection every 3 years). Owner-occupancy of one unit is required by ReZone Syracuse; short-term rentals (under 30 days) of an ADU also fall under rental-registry inspection and NY State sales/occupancy tax collection.
Syracuse ADU Rental Restrictions
Some RestrictionsShed Rules
Syracuse allows sheds and accessory buildings subject to zoning setback and size requirements. Small sheds may not require building permits.
Syracuse Shed & Accessory Building Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Syracuse requires building permits for garage conversions. The converted space must meet building code requirements for habitable rooms.
Syracuse Garage Conversion Rules
Some RestrictionsCarport Rules
Syracuse Zoning Ordinance Part B governs carports as accessory buildings in residential districts. Detached garages, carports, and similar accessory buildings may not exceed 25 feet in height, must sit at least 4 feet from any side or rear property line, and may not be placed within the required front yard setback for the principal building.
Carport Rules in Syracuse
Some RestrictionsLooking for Onondaga County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Syracuse city rules.
Accessory Structures in Onondaga County →