Can I put a prefab house in NYC backyard ?

Question

Hi guys,

I have a 22 x 30 backyard in the Bronx, and I would like to put a prefab home (tiny house or container house) to rent out.  Does anyone know if it is within zoning regulations to do so?

John Underwood · Answer

Try giving them a call.

Eric James · Answer

LOL. I'm thinking the chances of being able to do this are like 1 in a million. "So, you're saying there's a chance".

Joe Splitrock · Answer

That would be the easy solution, but instead people spend hours looking on websites and posting questions on online forums.

Bottom line is that building any sleeping structure on any property in any city in America generally requires a building permit. Cities have set back laws and may require foundations in cold climates. The exception may be for mobile homes, which are licensed differently, but are also only allowed in areas zoned for mobile homes. There are also plumbing considerations, unless you have people coming in your house to use your bathroom. Odds are good that a tiny house is not allowed in NYC, but call the city zoning department and ask. They may allow under certain conditions.

Gianni M. · Answer

@Paul Ndour if you do call make sure you get the suggestion documented somehow over email or otherwise. You wouldn’t want to take action and then have no proof that you were advised it was legal

Trish Mccoy · Answer

@Paul Ndour  I agree with John, call them to make sure you get correct info.

Trish Mccoy · Answer

You need to check with the city building and planning department.

Santiago Marquez · Answer

Hey Paul being a homeowner/small landlord in the 5 boros I can tell you that our city's bldg dept is one of the worst in terms of bureaucracy. They will make an owner jump through hoops over coals before they wish to help us. Sad to say. But they have reason to be this way bc they know there are very unscrupulous ppl out there trying to be contractors & builders etc. So tbh even if you were living in this prefab home & not someone else. They'd still look to get you in hot water.

Paul Ndour · Answer

@Trish Mccoy TY.  I've been looking, but so far I have not found anything on the DOB website regarding this.  Do you know where on the site I could find this info?

Thanks in advance

Can I put a prefab house in NYC backyard ?

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