Rhinebeck ADU Zoning Guide

Last reviewed 2026-04-26

Max size750 sq ft
Owner occupancyRequired

Rhinebeck's zoning code supports ADU development on qualifying single-family properties, providing flexible housing options for creative homeowners. Whether you're considering multigenerational housing for family members, a rental unit with reliable income, or an independent living space for caregivers or assistants, understanding the local zoning rules is essential to moving forward with confidence. We've reviewed Rhinebeck's zoning regulations in detail and outlined the key requirements below. Rules can change, so confirm details with the Rhinebeck Planning Department or book a free consultation with our team before starting your project.

Status

Adoption status: Active — both ADU within principal structure (§125-68D) and detached ADU (§125-68E) are established Special Permit uses in the Town of Rhinebeck Zoning Code; Chapter 125 adopted December 29, 2009 by L.L. No. 6-2009
Governing ordinance: Town of Rhinebeck Zoning Code, Chapter 125; ADU standards at §125-68D (within principal structure) and §125-68E (detached)

Eligibility

Where ADUs are allowed

Lot type / use restrictions: Single-family residential lots; ADU must be accessory to a one-family dwelling
Minimum lot area required: Varies by district (HP20 = 20 acres min; RA10 = 10 acres min; RC5 = 5 acres min; RL5 = 5 acres min; RM1 = 1 acre min)
Limit per property: One ADU per lot

Types allowed

Attached ADU (interior conversion): Yes — §125-68D "Accessory Dwelling Unit (within principal structure)"
Detached ADU (new construction or accessory structure): Yes — §125-68E "Accessory Dwelling Unit (detached)"
Guest cottage (§125-68YY — distinct type): A guest cottage is a separate use type with different standards (maximum 600 sq ft per §125-68(YY)(1)); it is not the same as an ADU

Size and placement

Size limits

Maximum sq ft (ADU — §125-68D/68E): 750 sq ft per OFA secondary source; §125-68D/68E specific text not retrieved — verify with Planning Department
Guest cottage (§125-68YY): Maximum 600 sq ft (confirmed from ZBA case); this is a distinct separate use type from ADU

Setbacks

Zone	Side Setback (Principal)	Accessory Structure Setback (75% rule)
RA10	100 ft	75 ft
RL5	Confirm with code	Confirm with code

Accessory structure setback rule (§125-27(A)(2)): No accessory structure shall be set back less than 75% of the minimum side setback of the zone. Example: RA10 zone has 100 ft side yard setback; 75% = 75 ft minimum setback for an accessory structure
Accessory structure size limit (§125-27(A)(4)): All roofed or enclosed accessory structures in aggregate shall not comprise more floor area than the principal dwelling or 1,500 sq ft, whichever is greater
Parking — not in front yard: Parking is not allowed in the front yard

Rules for use

Parking

Requirement: Additional off-street parking required as required by zoning for the overall dwelling
Front yard restriction: Parking may not be in the front yard

Owner occupancy

Required: Yes — owner occupancy is required

Rental use

Short-term rental: Permitted per OFA secondary source — note: prohibited if you take a Plus One ADU Program grant (10-year affordability covenant).
Long-term rental: Permitted

How to apply in Rhinebeck

Special use permit required: From Town of Rhinebeck Planning Board for both §125-68D and §125-68E ADU types; site plan review also required for S designations
Building permit: Required from Town of Rhinebeck Code Enforcement Officer after Planning Board approval
Contact: Town of Rhinebeck Planning Board, 80 East Market Street, Rhinebeck, NY 12572

Recent and pending changes

Chapter 125 last amended 06-13-2022
eCode360 shows the most recent law update as June 13, 2022

Important details

Ulster County Plus One ADU Program: Up to $112,500 available through RUPCO for eligible Rhinebeck homeowners; services include design, permitting, budgeting, environmental review, contractor selection, construction oversight, post-construction monitoring; 10-year affordability covenant; no STR use
Guest cottage vs. ADU: The Town of Rhinebeck has two different dwelling-like accessory use types: "Guest Cottage" (§125-68YY, max 600 sq ft, no kitchen, for guests only) and "Accessory Dwelling Unit" (§125-68D/68E, max 750 sq ft, full living unit with kitchen and bath, may be rented). They have different standards; do not confuse them
Large lot requirement for detached ADUs: Given the RA10 (10-acre) and RC5 (5-acre) district minimums and the 75% accessory structure setback rule, detached ADUs in rural Rhinebeck require substantial lot area

Frequently asked questions

Where can I find Rhinebeck's ADU zoning requirements?

Rhinebeck's zoning code is available through the Town and Village. For specific ADU requirements, contact the Planning Zoning clerk at 845-876-1922 or visit the Town's zoning enforcement office.

Does Rhinebeck allow accessory apartments or cottages?

The Town of Rhinebeck's zoning code may allow various types of accessory dwellings. Contact the Zoning Administrator to determine if ADUs are permitted in your specific zoning district.

What is the approval process for an ADU in Rhinebeck?

ADU approval processes vary by district. Consult the Town's zoning code or speak with the Building Department to understand specific requirements for your property.

Sources (5)

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