Zoning & Building Rules in New York City, NY

NYC has the most complex zoning system in the nation — the Zoning Resolution contains 13 residential districts, 8 commercial districts, 3 manufacturing districts, and hundreds of special purpose districts and overlay zones. Enter any New York City address at ReadyPermit.ai for instant zoning analysis including zone code, permitted uses, setbacks, and FAR from 20+ government sources.

ADU eligibility in New York City depends on your specific zoning designation and lot size. New York State passed ADU legislation in 2024 requiring localities to allow ADUs. NYC has its own complex zoning resolution. Upstate and suburban communities are at various stages of implementation. Enter your address at ReadyPermit for a property-specific analysis.

NYC: Department of Buildings permit processing varies by borough, 8-24 weeks typical. Upstate: varies widely by municipality. Projects requiring BSA variances or City Planning approvals can take 6-18 months in NYC. ReadyPermit estimates permit timelines as part of the Buildability Report for any New York City address.

The Buildability Score analyzes 142 factors including zoning, flood risk, environmental hazards, and infrastructure for any New York City address. Scores range 0-100. Enter your address at ReadyPermit for your score.