Building Permits

The Building Permit function is tasked with the enforcement of the Building and Residential Codes of New York State, and local laws and ordinances dealing with building construction, renovations (interior and exterior) and building demolition and removal.

Examples of projects that require a permit:

  • Any new building
  • All additions to existing buildings
  • Pools (aboveground and in-ground)
  • Sheds
  • Fences
  • Decks and Porches
  • Additions to Electrical Systems including installing generators
  • Additions to Plumbing Systems
  • Additions or New Heating Systems
  • Solid Fuel Heating Devices or Gas Inserts
  • Demolition of buildings or portions of buildings
To apply for a building permit, click here.

Building permits are received at the Department of Planning & Development office during normal business hours (9:00 AM – 4:15 PM)

Building permit applications require, as a minimum, a copy of the survey for the property, a completed application form, and a sketch or drawing that fully describes all proposed work including what you will be building, materials you will use and details of how it will be constructed. If the total project value will exceed $20,000 you will also need plans and specifications stamped and sealed by a New York State licensed engineer or registered architect. If you are unsure about the need for a permit, call the Department of Planning and Development at (315) 457-6661 or E-mail the Code Enforcement Officer here.

Building Permit Inspections

Building Inspections are required during each stage of construction to ensure compliance with construction codes and building plans. Inspections are required at the following stages:

  • Footings before backfilling
  • Foundations wall before backfilling
  • Framing before enclosing (after electrical and plumbing approvals)
  • Heating, ventilation and air-condition (before enclosing)
  • Insulation before enclosing
  • Fire Protection equipment before enclosing
  • Fire separation before enclosing
  • Fireplace / solid fuel burning devices (before insulating/enclosing)
  • Final (Certificate Inspection) upon completion of all other inspections

Inspections should be requested at least one business day before inspection is needed, call the Department of Planning and Development at (315) 457-6661 or E-mail the Code Enforcement Office here