SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY — Housing nonprofit RUPCO is offering grants of up to $112,500 for eligible homeowners to build or renovate a code-compliant accessory dwelling unit (ADU). 

An ADU is a residential structure built on a lot with a pre-existing primary dwelling structure. Examples include a backyard cottage, a converted garage or a basement apartment. 

Applicants must own and live in the property where the ADU will be built—vacation or second homes do not qualify. Applicants must show that the ADU project would not be financially possible without the grant, and that they could explore other financing options if the cost of the grant exceeds $112,500. There are also household income requirements. 

The property must be located in a zoning district that permits ADUs, must be free of zoning code violations, must be sized to meet local ADU setback and building requirements, must not be a mobile home and must have no other residential or commercial businesses on the property. 

Applications can be found at rupco.org/plusonesullivan. Questions can be directed to 845/331-2140 ext. 260 or to dkilpatrick@rupco.org. 

Applications open August 19, and will be processed starting September 19. The applications will remain open until all funding is exhausted.