Albany, NY Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)

Albany's Unified Sustainable Development Ordinance sets setback rules for accessory structures in Table 375.401.4, part of the dimensional standards at § 375-401(6). An 'accessory rain garden or rain barrel' may encroach into the front, side, and rear setback on any lot: a broader allowance than almost any other accessory feature. A separate line for 'clotheslines, play equipment, and rainwater harvesting barrels' permits side- and rear-setback encroachment only, not front. The code defines a rainwater harvesting barrel as a barrel that stores rainwater on-site to offset a building's potable water needs. No permit, size cap, or overflow standard is set out for either feature.