ADU Rules in Rochester, NY (2026)
ADU rules, permit requirements, size limits, and fees for Rochester, NY. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Yes, ADUs are allowed in Rochester, NY.
Rochester, NY permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on residential properties. ADUs — also called granny flats, in-law units, backyard cottages, or secondary suites — are secondary housing units on a single-family or multifamily lot. State and local law governs the approval process. In Rochester, the Rochester Bureau of Buildings and Zoning handles ADU permit applications. Below you will find the current size limits, setbacks, fees, and timeline for building an ADU in Rochester.
ADU Size Limits
ADU Size Limits in Rochester: 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 Rochester: Plan check fee: $150–$600. Building permit fee: Based on construction value — typically $600–$2,500. 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
Rochester ADU Permit Timeline: Rochester Bureau of Planning and Zoning building permit: typically 4-8 weeks for review. Construction 3-9 months. Apply through the Rochester Bureau of Buildings and Zoning online permit portal. Phone: (585) 428-7000.
Setback Requirements
ADU Setback Requirements in Rochester: Front setback: follows zone standard. Side setback: no minimum. Rear setback: no minimum.
Parking Requirements
Parking Requirements: 1 off-street parking space per ADU. Near RTS bus routes or major transit corridors, parking may be reduced.
Restrictions & Requirements
- ADU must comply with Rochester City 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 Third Ward, Plymouth-Exchange, and other designated districts
How Many ADUs Are Allowed?
Number of ADUs Allowed in Rochester: Single-family lots: 1. Multifamily properties: Multiple units in R-4, R-5, R-M, and commercial zones per development standards. One ADU per single-family lot. Rochester's University of Rochester and RIT student populations create rental housing demand in surrounding neighborhoods.
- Single-Family Lots
- 1
- Multifamily Properties
- Multiple units in R-4, R-5, R-M, and commercial zones per development standards
Statewide Preemption
ADU Preemption
We could not confirm a statewide ADU preemption statute for New York.
View New York preemption detailsHistoric District Considerations
Historic District Requirements: Rochester has 9 historic districts where additional design review may be required for ADU construction. Design review approval is required before obtaining a building permit for properties in historic overlay zones. Rochester has notable architectural heritage from its 19th century industrial prosperity. The Third Ward and Corn Hill neighborhoods have well-preserved antebellum and Victorian residential architecture. East Avenue is lined with Gilded Age mansions. George Eastman House (International Museum of Photography and Film) is a National Historic Landmark. The Rochester Landmark Society and local Preservation Board review exterior changes in designated historic districts. Strong Place, Berkshire, and other residential historic districts reflect Rochester's prosperity during the Kodak era. Look up historic district boundaries at: https://www.cityofrochester.gov/preservation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Rochester?
Yes. Rochester, NY allows accessory dwelling units. On a single-family lot you can build 1.
How big can an ADU be in Rochester?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in Rochester is 850 square feet.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Rochester?
The typical ADU permit timeline in Rochester is Rochester Bureau of Planning and Zoning building permit: typically 4-8 weeks for review. 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 Rochester?
Rochester parking rules for ADUs: 1 off-street parking space per ADU. Near RTS bus routes or major transit corridors, parking may be reduced.
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in Rochester?
Owner-occupancy requirement in Rochester: No owner-occupancy requirement for accessory dwelling units in Rochester.
Source: Rochester City Code Chapter 120 — Zoning; Monroe County Zoning Law. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source