Coastal Development: Albany vs Colonie
How do coastal development rules compare between Albany, NY and Colonie, NY?
Albany and Colonie have similar restriction levels.
Albany, NY
Albany County
Albany County has no ocean coastline but the Hudson River is a designated NYS coastal area under Executive Law Article 42. Waterfront development in Bethlehem, Coeymans, and the City of Albany triggers LWRP consistency review and tidal wetlands rules.
View full Albany rules →Colonie, NY
Albany County
Albany County has no ocean coastline but the Hudson River is a designated NYS coastal area under Executive Law Article 42. Waterfront development in Bethlehem, Coeymans, and the City of Albany triggers LWRP consistency review and tidal wetlands rules.
View full Colonie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Albany | Colonie |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal Authority | NYS Dept of State | NYS Dept of State |
| Tidal Wetlands | ECL Article 25 | ECL Article 25 |
| LWRPs | Albany, Bethlehem, Coeymans | Albany, Bethlehem, Coeymans |
| Tidal Line | Up to Federal Dam, Troy | Up to Federal Dam, Troy |
| Federal | Army Corps §404 permit | Army Corps §404 permit |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Albany FAQ
Is Albany County really considered coastal?
Yes. New York's Coastal Management Program covers the tidal Hudson River shoreline, including Albany County. Projects near the river trigger consistency review even though the county is over 130 miles inland.
Do I need a permit to build a dock on the Hudson?
Yes. You need a DEC tidal wetlands permit under ECL Article 25, plus an Army Corps of Engineers permit, and local site plan approval. Allow 6 to 12 months for review.
Colonie FAQ
Is Albany County really considered coastal?
Yes. New York's Coastal Management Program covers the tidal Hudson River shoreline, including Albany County. Projects near the river trigger consistency review even though the county is over 130 miles inland.
Do I need a permit to build a dock on the Hudson?
Yes. You need a DEC tidal wetlands permit under ECL Article 25, plus an Army Corps of Engineers permit, and local site plan approval. Allow 6 to 12 months for review.
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