5 rules for unincorporated Bronx County, New York.
Verified from official government sources
New York State has not enacted a statewide ADU law. In The Bronx, accessory dwelling units are governed by the NYC Zoning Resolution and require full DOB approval, a Certificate of Occupancy amendment, and compliance with minimum-unit size, egress, and light/air rules.
Sheds in The Bronx need a NYC DOB permit if they exceed 120 sq ft or contain electrical or plumbing. Smaller pre-fab sheds are generally permit-exempt but still must meet zoning setbacks and rear-yard coverage limits.
Converting a Bronx garage into living space is a major alteration that requires NYC DOB Alt-1 filing, amended Certificate of Occupancy, and full compliance with habitable-space code. Illegal garage conversions are aggressively pursued by DOB and HPD.
Carports count as accessory structures and obstructions in open space under the NYC Zoning Resolution. Most Bronx residential zones allow carports only if they meet setback and height rules. DOB permits are required for anything structural.
Tiny homes on foundations are not a recognized building type under the NYC Zoning Resolution. Minimum unit sizes and full Building Code compliance apply, which effectively rules out most tiny-house models in The Bronx. Tiny houses on wheels are treated as RVs and cannot be used as permanent dwellings.
See every category we cover for Bronx County — parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
Bronx County Ordinance Hub →