Buffalo driveways require permits for curb cuts and must meet Green Code dimensional standards. Front yard paving limited to preserve neighborhood character in historic districts.
Buffalo regulates driveways under the Green Code and City Code Chapter 413. New driveway curb cuts require a permit from the Department of Public Works. Residential driveways must be at least 9 feet wide and have proper drainage. The Green Code limits front yard paving to prevent excess impervious surface (important for Buffalo River and Lake Erie watershed). Shared driveways between neighbors require easement documentation. Blocking a driveway, even your own, is prohibited if it extends over the public sidewalk. Snow clearance of driveway aprons is the property owner's responsibility.
Unpermitted curb cut: 500 dollars plus restoration costs. Blocking sidewalk: 65 dollar ticket. Excess paving: zoning violation.
See how Buffalo's driveway rules rules stack up against other locations.
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