City guide · Beacon, New York

Beacon ADU regulations.

ADU zoning guide for Beacon, NY. Learn about permitted zones, ADU types, size requirements, setbacks, and the approval process.

Last reviewed 2026-04-26

  • Max size1,000 sq ft
  • Owner occupancyRequired

Beacon has established clear ADU guidelines that, while having specific requirements, provide a pathway for homeowners to build on their existing property. Whether you're considering a primary residence for a family member, a rental income source, or an independent square footage for your growing family, understanding the local zoning rules is essential to moving forward with confidence. We've reviewed Beacon's zoning regulations in detail and outlined the key requirements below. Rules can change, so confirm details with the Beacon Planning Department or book a free consultation with our team before starting your project.

Status

Adoption status
Active — ADUs (accessory apartments) are a permitted accessory use on all single-family lots in the City of Beacon
Governing ordinance
City of Beacon Zoning Code; specific chapter and section references to be confirmed with Building Department (OFA cites code compliance but does not cite specific chapter number)
2025 update — parking waiver
In 2025, the City of Beacon removed the off-street parking space requirement for ADUs

Eligibility

Where ADUs are allowed

Zoning districts permitted
All single-family residential lots in the City of Beacon
Lot type / use restrictions
Single-family lots only
Limit per property
One ADU per lot

Types allowed

Attached ADU (interior conversion)
Yes
Attached ADU (addition)
Not explicitly stated; contact Building Department to confirm
Detached ADU (new construction)
Not explicitly confirmed; OFA states attached or converted types only
Detached ADU (accessory structure conversion)
Yes — garage conversion listed as permitted type

Size and placement

Size limits

Maximum sq ft
1,000 sq ft

Setbacks

General rule
ADUs must comply with Beacon's Zoning Code setback requirements applicable to the district

Rules for use

Parking

2025 update
Parking space requirement removed for ADUs in 2025
Prior requirement
Previously required at least 1 off-street parking space for an accessory apartment

Owner occupancy

Required
Yes — owner occupancy is required; the owner is required to submit an affidavit at time of building permit application stating they reside on the premises

Rental use

Short-term rental
Prohibited — accessory apartments cannot be used as short-term rentals
Long-term rental
Permitted

How to apply in Beacon

Permit required
Building permit from City of Beacon Building Department
Owner affidavit
Owner must submit affidavit stating residency at time of building permit application
Contact
City of Beacon Building Department, 1 Municipal Plaza, Beacon, NY 12508

Recent and pending changes

  1. 2025 parking waiver
    The City of Beacon eliminated the off-street parking requirement for ADUs in 2025
  2. Plus One ADU Program launch (April 2025)
    City of Beacon announced active participation in the Dutchess County Plus One ADU Program in April 2025, with Hudson River Housing as program administrator

Important details

  • Plus One ADU Program: Up to $125,000 available for eligible homeowners through Hudson River Housing's Dutchess County Plus One ADU Program. Launched mid-to-late April 2025. Income eligibility and affordability covenant requirements apply (10-year covenant, affordable rent, no STR)
  • Parking no longer required: As of 2025, homeowners do not need to provide an additional off-street parking space when adding an ADU

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum size ADU in Beacon?

In Beacon's single-family districts, ADUs can be between 200 and 1,000 square feet, but not more than 50 percent of the principal building's total square footage.

Can I use my ADU as a short-term rental in Beacon?

No, ADUs in Beacon cannot be used for short-term rentals. The owner of the property must live on-site, and only one ADU is allowed per single-family lot.

Do I need Planning Board approval for an ADU in Beacon?

If the ADU is created inside an existing house with no new construction, the building inspector can approve it. For additions or new construction, Planning Board review is required, which can be time-consuming and costly.

Sources (5)

More city guides

Last reviewed 2026-04-26. Local rules can change — verify the latest details with the Beacon planning department, or book a free consultation with our team before starting your project. This page is informational and is not legal advice.