Utility requirements determine whether an ADU is safe, legal and compliant. Under the City of Yes proposal, Accessory Dwelling Units must meet specific plumbing, electrical, heating and service standards. Staten Island and Brooklyn homeowners planning an ADU need to understand these rules early.

Basic Utility Requirements for ADUs

According to draft City Planning guidance:

• ADUs must have independent heating and cooling systems sized appropriately.

• Kitchens require proper ventilation, safe electrical load capacity and approved plumbing lines.

• Bathrooms must connect to the property’s sewer line or approved connection point.

• Electrical load must meet code, often requiring a panel upgrade for older homes.

• Units must have safe access to water shutoff valves.

• Gas-fed appliances must meet current venting and combustion standards.

Key Considerations for Staten Island and Brooklyn

• Older homes often need upgraded service panels before adding an ADU.

• ADUs in garages or detached structures may require trenching utilities.

• Sewer line capacity must be confirmed, especially for basement or detached ADUs.

• Heat pumps are becoming the preferred system due to efficiency and zoning guidance.

What Homeowners Should Prepare For

• A licensed contractor assessment of existing plumbing and electrical capacity

• Possible electrical panel increases to 150 or 200 amps

• A plan for heating and cooling the unit independently

• Utility separation or shared-service planning per code

Meeting utility rules early prevents costly redesigns during permitting.

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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