How close can a neighbor built structure next to your home In New York State?

According to the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (NY State UFC), the minimum distance from a neighboring building or structure to your home is 3 feet. This distance is measured from the exterior wall of your home to the exterior wall of the neighboring structure.

Exceptions to the General Rule

There are some exceptions to the general rule requiring a 3-foot clearance between buildings. For example, the clearance distance may be reduced to 1 foot if both buildings are constructed of fire-resistant materials. Additionally, the clearance distance may be reduced if the neighboring structure is a garage, shed, or other accessory structure that is not used for residential purposes.

Local Regulations

In addition to the NY State UFC, some localities may have their own regulations regarding the minimum distance between buildings. For example, the New York City Building Code requires a minimum clearance of 4 feet between buildings in most residential areas.

Before you build any structure on your property, it is important to check with your local building department to determine the applicable regulations.