ADU for You: New York City's Ancillary Dwelling Unit (ADU) Resource Page

Making Room for What Matters to You

From backyard cottages to attic apartments, small buildings can make a big difference. Ancillary Dwelling Units (ADUs), also known as Accessory Dwelling Units, empower homeowners like you to create extra space that fits changing needs. Whether you're planning for a family member, a caregiver, or hoping for rental income, this site will provide information on the upcoming NYC ADU for You program.

Over the coming months, we’ll be building a resource to help you learn about ADUs, how to get started, and the support available to you.

What is an ADU?

An ADU is a small, independent home located on the same lot as the main house. It can connect to your existing home or be built separately. ADUs include:

A small cottage in your backyard or above a garage
A basement or cellar apartment
A converted attic space
A connected suite with its own kitchen and bathroom

ADUs offer many practical benefits. They make it easier for multigenerational households to live together while preserving independence, such as a grandparent in a backyard cottage helping with childcare or a young adult in a basement apartment with added privacy. They can also generate rental income for homeowners and boost property value. On a community scale, ADUs support gentle growth, helping neighborhoods evolve without losing their established character.

Where can I build my ADU?

New York City needs more homes that people can afford. Passed in December 2024, City of Yes for Housing Opportunity is a zoning reform that allows for a little more housing in every neighborhood. ADUs are a key part of that vision.

Through City of Yes:

You may be able to add an ADU if you own a one- or two-family home
Your ADU may be up to 800 square feet
You do not have to add another parking spot for your ADU
Your ADU may either be part of your existing home (basement or attic apartment or an addition), in your backyard, or in a converted garage

While ADUs offer exciting opportunities for homeowners and neighborhoods, they may not be possible everywhere. Local zoning and safety regulations mean that some properties may not qualify.

Explore more about the City of Yes for Housing Opportunity.

Bringing Your Existing Unauthorized Basement and Cellar Apartments Into Compliance

Some homes already have extra spaces where people live, but they aren’t officially legal. These spaces might not comply with safety regulations and can put people at risk. Watch for upcoming guidelines on how to turn existing, non-compliant units into safe, code-compliant housing that supports individual homeowners and citywide housing goals.

Why bring an existing unit into compliance?

Better safety and housing quality

Legalization ensures that units meet fire, flood, and access standards, protecting both residents and homeowners.

Building financial equity

A legalized unit can enhance long-term financial benefits.

Reduced risk of fines or enforcement

Bringing a unit into compliance can protect homeowners from violations or forced evictions.

Support for long-term housing stability

Legal ADUs can help homeowners stay in place, accommodate family members, or generate rental income.

City financing and resources may be available to help you bring your existing ADU into compliance.

The Plus One ADU Program

The Plus One ADU Program launched on November 21, 2023. Homeowners had until February 13, 2024, to complete a survey to be considered for the pilot. Although the application period is now closed, you can sign up below to get updates on ADU programs across the city.

Explore more about the Plus One ADU Program.

You can also reach out directly for more information by contacting our technical assistance provider, Restored Homes HDFC, at aduforyou@neighborhoodrestore.org.

Tools and Resources for You

We’re developing a one-stop ADU portal that includes:

Resources to help guide homeowners
Step-by-step permitting guides
Construction financing information
Zoning and code check tools

These tools aim to remove barriers, lower costs, and help you build with confidence.

Have a question? We have answers for you.

Explore our FAQ to learn more about ADUs.

Do you need support for your home?

If you're a homeowner in need of support, get in touch with the Homeowner Help Desk. The Homeowner Help Desk provides FREE assistance from experienced housing counselors and legal experts to homeowners to:

Prevent foreclosure and assist with mortgage payments
Protect against housing scams and fraud
Resolve property tax and water bill lien debt
Access home repair resources and energy efficiency upgrades
Create an estate plan to ensure your home stays within the family
Learn about flood precautions and flood insurance

Take the first step, visit homeownerhelpny.org or call (646) 786-0888 for assistance.