One of the most significant ADU opportunities in the City of Yes plan is garage conversions. Many Staten Island and Brooklyn homes have detached or attached garages that are underused. The new zoning framework aims to legalize converting these structures into safe, code-compliant housing.

What the City of Yes Proposal Allows

According to the NYC Department of City Planning draft amendment (2024):

• Existing garages can be converted into ADUs if they meet updated building and life-safety standards.

• Conversion is allowed for both detached and attached garages.

• No parking replacement is required in many zones, especially near transit.

• ADUs must comply with lot coverage, height and setback rules.

• Structures must meet residential code: fire separation, insulation, ventilation and egress.

Key Requirements for Garage Conversions

• A garage must be structurally sound before conversion.

• It must meet energy and insulation standards once converted.

• Flood-prone areas may require elevated floors or moisture barriers.

• Fire-rated walls are required when converting attached garages.

• Utilities must be separated or properly integrated per code.

Why Staten Island Leads the Opportunity

Staten Island has more detached garages and deep rear yards compared to any other borough. Neighborhoods like Oakwood, Great Kills and Eltingville will likely see the earliest ADU conversions once the zoning text is adopted.

For Brooklyn homeowners, garage conversions are most applicable in Bay Ridge, Dyker Heights and Marine Park.

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Joseph Ranola | Five-Star Staten Island & South Brooklyn Realtor® (30 + Google reviews)
Associate Broker · Matias Real Estate | Founder · Bridge & Boro Team
Serving 103xx and 11209 / 11214 / 11228 | $25 M + closed volume
📞 917-716-1496 | ranolarealestate.com