Shed Rules: Buffalo vs Clarence
How do shed rules rules compare between Buffalo, NY and Clarence, NY?
Buffalo and Clarence have similar restriction levels.
Buffalo, NY
Erie County
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.
View full Buffalo rules →Clarence, NY
Erie County
Under the NYS Uniform Code, a detached one-story shed of 144 square feet or less may be exempted from a building permit, but each Erie County municipality decides whether to honor that exemption and applies its own zoning setbacks.
View full Clarence rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Buffalo | Clarence |
|---|---|---|
| No-permit size | 144 sq ft or less | - |
| Setback | 3-5 ft typical | - |
| Rear coverage | ~30% max | - |
| Height | 12-15 ft | - |
| Historic | COA may apply | - |
| State permit threshold | - | Shed over 144 sq ft |
| State citation | - | 19 NYCRR 1203.3(a)(1) |
| Exemption is | - | Local option, not automatic |
| Setbacks set by | - | Your municipality |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Buffalo FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 10x10 resin shed on a concrete pad?
A 100 sq ft shed does not need a building permit but still must meet setbacks and cannot have permanent plumbing or hardwired electrical.
Can I put a shed right on the rear property line?
No. Even accessory structures need a 3-foot rear setback in most Buffalo residential districts, and larger structures need more.
Clarence FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in Erie County?
State code lets a shed of 144 sq ft or less be exempted from a building permit, but your town, city, or village decides whether to honor that. Sheds over 144 sq ft generally need a permit. Confirm locally.
Does the county set shed setbacks?
No. Erie County has no countywide shed ordinance. Setbacks from property lines, size, and height are set by your local municipal zoning code and enforced by your town, city, or village.
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