Disclaimer & Terms of Use

General

This website provides general information about Ancillary Dwelling Units (ADUs) and related New York City housing, zoning, and permitting topics for educational purposes only. The information presented is not legal, financial, or professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, content may not reflect the most current laws, codes, or policies.

All details, including cost estimates, eligibility criteria, and references to City or State programs, are subject to change without notice. Nothing on this site constitutes a legal offer, guarantee of approval, or determination of eligibility. Users are responsible for verifying information with appropriate agencies, including the NYC Department of Buildings, NYC Housing Preservation and Development, and other relevant authorities, and for consulting licensed professionals such as architects, engineers, or attorneys before making decisions.

The site and its contributors comply with all applicable Fair Housing and non-discrimination laws. No representation or warranty, express or implied, is made regarding the completeness or accuracy of the information provided. The owners, authors, and partners of this site assume no liability for any loss, damage, or outcome resulting from the use or reliance on its content.

Pre-Approved Plan Library (PAPL)

The Pre-Approved Plan Library features designs prepared and submitted by independent, licensed design professionals. The City of New York does not own, control, or warrant any designs contained in the library. Inclusion in the library does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or guarantee of quality, compliance, or performance by New York City or its agencies. All contractual and financial arrangements are made directly between property owners and their chosen design professionals. Users are responsible for confirming that any selected design meets applicable zoning, building, and site-specific conditions prior to permitting or construction.

Pro Forma Budget Estimator Tool

The Pro Forma tool provides preliminary estimates to help homeowners understand potential costs, rental income, and financing scenarios associated with ADU development in New York City. These estimates are for informational purposes only and are not intended to represent actual construction bids, appraisals, or loan offers. The City of New York and its partners make no guarantee that projected costs, timelines, or financial outcomes will align with real-world results. Users should conduct independent financial analysis, obtain professional cost estimates, and consult qualified advisors before making any investment or construction decisions.

Map

The interactive map is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It offers a general visualization of zoning districts, flood zones, historic districts, and other geographic data relevant to ADU eligibility in New York City. Map boundaries, data layers, and classifications are based on publicly available sources, including PLUTO data, which may contain inaccuracies or outdated information.

Users should not rely on the map as a definitive determination of eligibility, property boundaries, or development potential. The tool does not account for all property-specific factors. These factors may include such things as lot coverage limits, easements, or site conditions that may affect your ability to build an ADU. Always confirm your property’s zoning, development potential, and any applicable restrictions with a Registered Design Professional (RDP) and verify details with the NYC Department of Buildings, the Department of City Planning, and other relevant agencies before proceeding.

Neither the City of New York nor its partners, authors, or contributors assume liability for errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from use of the map or reliance on its content.

Guidebook

TThe ADU for You Guidebook is an informational resource created to help homeowners understand the process of building or legalizing an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in New York City. It summarizes zoning, permitting, and construction requirements for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional, legal, or financial advice.

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, laws, regulations, and program details may change without notice. Users should always confirm current requirements with the NYC Department of Buildings, NYC Housing Preservation and Development, and other relevant agencies.

The City of New York and its partners make no warranties, express or implied, regarding the completeness or reliability of the information contained in the Guidebook. The authors and contributors assume no liability for any actions taken or decisions made based on the content.

This guide is for informational purposes only. Always confirm requirements and approvals with your Registered Design Professional (RDP), the NYC Department of Buildings, or other relevant New York City agencies.