What are Building Permits required for?
As per New York State Law*, Building Permits are required for work that must conform to the Uniform Building Codes, which include: New residential, commercial and industrial buildings, additions to residential, commercial and industrial buildings, interior and exterior structural repairs, alterations, improvements and remodeling of existing structures, garages, carports, sheds larger than 100sf, roofing, siding, decks, porches, stairs, fences, swimming pools in which the water depth is greater than two-feet, heating systems (new and replacements), fire suppression systems, fire alarm systems, solid fuel burning appliances, gas fired decorative appliances, parking lots approved by the Planning Commission and demolition of all structures. * New York Code’s Division will have a new standard for administration and enforcement that will take effect January 1, 2007 and the above will be amended to comply with New York State.
A building permit shall be required for any work which must conform to the Uniform Code and/or the Energy Code, including, but not limited to, the construction, enlargement, alteration, improvement, removal, relocation or demolition of any building or structure or any portion thereof and the installation of a solid-fuel-burning heating appliance, chimney or flue in any dwelling unit. No person shall commence any work for which a building permit is required without first having obtained a building permit from the Code Enforcement Officer.
Building permits are required for new construction, additions and any alterations to structures that may affect structural components, public safety, means of egress, electrical & mechanical systems and fire protection equipment. Permits are also required for wood and other solid fuel burning stoves, new siding, fences and accessory structures. New wood stove installations are also required to have a certificate of installation approval issued by the Bureau of Code Enforcement in your local city, town or village. In addition, an informational brochure titled Homeowners Guide to Assessments and Permits for Home Improvements is also available from the bureau.
