Tiny Homes: Buffalo vs Clarence
How do tiny homes rules compare between Buffalo, NY and Clarence, NY?
Buffalo and Clarence have similar restriction levels.
Buffalo, NY
Erie County
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.
View full Buffalo rules →Clarence, NY
Erie County
Tiny homes used as permanent residences in New York must comply with the Uniform Code, including Appendix Q for dwellings under 400 square feet, regardless of location.
View full Clarence rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Buffalo | Clarence |
|---|---|---|
| On foundation | Allowed with permit | - |
| Appendix Q | NYS code for <400 sf | - |
| THOW | RV only, not residence | - |
| ADU option | Under 800 sq ft cap | - |
| Utilities | Must connect to city | - |
| Code basis | - | IRC Appendix Q |
| Threshold | - | 400 sq ft or less |
| Foundation required | - | For permanent dwelling |
| Local zoning | - | Controls placement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Buffalo FAQ
Can I park my tiny home on wheels in my Buffalo backyard and live in it?
No. THOWs are classified as RVs and cannot be used as permanent dwellings on residential lots.
Can a 350 sq ft tiny home be a legal ADU?
Yes, if built on a foundation, permitted under Appendix Q, and compliant with Green Code ADU rules (owner-occupancy, parking, setbacks).
Clarence FAQ
Are tiny homes legal in New York?
Yes, when built to the Uniform Code with Appendix Q on a permanent foundation. Tiny homes on wheels are treated as RVs and generally cannot be used as full-time residences on most residential lots.
Does New York set a minimum house size statewide?
The state code permits dwellings as small as Appendix Q allows, but local zoning ordinances may impose larger minimum dwelling sizes that supersede the small-home pathway.
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