Despite these challenges, the city is working on new rules and resources, including a "one-stop shop" website and pre-approved designs, to facilitate ADU construction. The state legislature could amend the MDL to ease these barriers, but there is little indication of legislative interest. The city's "Plus One ADU" pilot grant program has been expanded, offering financial support to eligible homeowners. While ADUs are seen as a potential solution for affordable housing, their impact in New York City is expected to be limited due to the regulatory hurdles and owner-occupancy requirements.
Key takeaways:
- New York City has legalized the addition of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to certain one- and two-family homes, but both city and state regulations significantly limit their construction.
- The city's zoning reforms allow ADUs but impose restrictions, such as prohibiting them on lots with attached rowhomes, in historic districts, and in areas prone to flooding.
- New York State's Multiple Dwelling Law (MDL) further complicates ADU construction by imposing costly requirements on buildings with three or more units, although there are some exceptions.
- The city is developing new rules and resources to support ADU construction, but progress is slow, and the impact on housing stock is expected to be limited.