ADU Rules in Buffalo, NY (2026)
ADU rules, permit requirements, size limits, and fees for Buffalo, NY. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Whether ADUs are allowed in Buffalo, NY has not been confirmed — see the official source before proceeding.
Whether Buffalo, NY permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) has not been confirmed from an official source. ADUs — also called granny flats, in-law units, or secondary suites — are secondary housing units on a single-family or multifamily lot. Contact the local building department through their official website to verify current ADU rules before proceeding, as regulations may have changed since this data was last reviewed.
ADU Size Limits
ADU Size Limits in Buffalo: Detached ADU: size varies by zoning — see official source (max height: varies — see official source). Attached ADU: size varies by zoning — see official source.
| Type | Max Size | Max Height |
|---|---|---|
| Detached ADU | See official source | See official source |
| Attached ADU | See official source | See official source |
Permit Fees
ADU Permit Fees in Buffalo: Plan check fee: Varies. Building permit fee: Varies. Impact fees: None. School fees: None or N/A. Total estimated permit cost: Varies.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Plan Check | $150–$600 |
| Building Permit | Based on construction value — typically $600–$2,500 |
| Impact Fees | None |
| School Fees | None |
| Total Estimate | See official source |
Permit Timeline
Buffalo ADU Permit Timeline: Permit timeline has not been confirmed — contact the department for current processing times. Apply through the local building department online permit portal. Contact them through their official website for current contact information.
Setback Requirements
ADU Setback Requirements in Buffalo: Front setback: follows zone standard. Side setback: no minimum. Rear setback: no minimum.
Parking Requirements
Parking Requirements: Parking requirements have not been confirmed — see official source.
Restrictions & Requirements
- ADU must comply with Buffalo Green Code accessory use standards
- Only one ADU per single-family lot
- Cannot be separately conveyed from primary lot
- Must maintain minimum lot coverage per zone
- Historic preservation review in Allentown, Elmwood Village, and other designated areas
- Lead paint and asbestos remediation required for older properties — very common in Buffalo
How Many ADUs Are Allowed?
Number of ADUs Allowed in Buffalo: Single-family lots: not confirmed — see official source. Multifamily properties: not confirmed — see official source.
- Single-Family Lots
- 1
- Multifamily Properties
- Multiple units in N-2R, N-3E, N-3R, and district zones per development standards
Statewide Preemption
ADU Preemption
We could not confirm a statewide ADU preemption statute for New York.
View New York preemption detailsFrequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Buffalo?
Yes. Buffalo, NY allows accessory dwelling units. On a single-family lot you can build 1.
How big can an ADU be in Buffalo?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in Buffalo is 900 square feet.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Buffalo?
The typical ADU permit timeline in Buffalo is Buffalo Office of Strategic Planning building permit: typically 4-8 weeks for review. Online permit portal available. Construction 3-9 months.. Total estimated permit fees are $1,000–$4,000 total permit fees.
Do I need extra parking for an ADU in Buffalo?
Buffalo parking rules for ADUs: 1 off-street parking space per ADU. Near NFTA Metro Rail stations or major bus routes, parking may be waived.
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in Buffalo?
Owner-occupancy requirement in Buffalo: No owner-occupancy requirement for accessory dwelling units in Buffalo.
Source: Buffalo Green Code (Unified Development Ordinance, 2017); NY Zoning Law. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source