Hilton (2025 code) allows an in-house or addition ADU up to 700 sq ft, owner on site, by zoning board permit renewed every two years.
The code allows an ADU only with a special use permit, which a board must approve, usually after a public hearing. Approval is not automatic.
Whether any of this applies to your lot depends on your zoning district and your property.
The rules we found
| What the code says | Allowed with a special use permit |
|---|---|
| Detached (backyard) unit | Outside the ADU definition |
| Inside or attached | Yes, inside the house or in a compatible addition |
| Size limit | 700 sq ft or 35% of the house, whichever is smaller |
| Bedrooms | Not stated in the code we read |
| Owner must live on site | Yes |
| How approval works | Zoning Board of Appeals special use permit in R, renewed every two years |
| Other rules | One ADU per home. An addition must still meet the usual rules on distance from lot lines and how much of the lot buildings can cover. A new owner needs a new special permit before anyone moves into the ADU. |
Code section: §275-12 (Hilton ADU definition). Replacement zoning provisions and use table adopted February 18, 2025 by Local Law 1-2025.
What this means for your plans
- Expect a public hearing where neighbors can speak, and a board decision that can take a few months. How special use permits work.
- The owner has to live on the property. If you plan to move away, spend winters somewhere else or sell, read the owner rule above closely. Renting and owner rules.
What we’re still confirming
- This comes from our review of the code on September 16, 2026. Confirm with the town before you rely on it.
Before you spend money on drawings
- Confirm the Village of Hilton governs your lot: it should be the municipality on your property tax bill.
- Find your zoning district on the municipal zoning map; the rules above can differ by district.
- Call or write the code office with your address and what you’re picturing, and ask for the answer and the code section in writing.
- On septic or a well? Ask the Monroe County health department whether the system can serve an extra bedroom. On public sewer? Ask your sewer district.
Our guides explain the approval process, site and utility checks and what an ADU costs.
Sources
General information, not legal advice. The Village of Hilton decides what can be built on your property.