A building permit is required for any work that is regulated by the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code. Examples of work usually requiring a building permit include:  new buildings, additions, foundations, demolitions, decks, pools, storage sheds, fireplaces (excludes gas-burning), adding new windows or doors, work that is structural in nature, or other substantial remodeling or renovation work on existing buildings.  Storage sheds less than 144 square feet in area placed in conjunction with a residence do not require a permit but must meet zoning regulations.

Examples of work, that usually do not require a building permit include:  replacing a window or door with another of the same size in the same location, replacing electrical or plumbing fixtures in the same location, painting, wallpapering, carpeting, sidewalks, driveways, replacement of roofing shingles that does not involve replacement of the sheathing or underlying structure.  Please contact us if you are not sure whether or not a permit is required.

Click here for a list of permit fees

Building permits will expire 12 months after the date of issuance.

Yes. Insurance and homeowners who act as their own contractor must go to the NYS Workers Compensation website to complete form CE-200 and provide a printed copy to accompany the building permit application.

Building permits are issued in person only. Applicants are encouraged to call the office to arrange a time to meet with the Code Enforcement Officer.

1.      Proof of identification.

2.     Proof of property ownership if recently purchased.

3.     A plot plan of the parcel showing all structures, existing and proposed, in relation to property lines.

4.     For a wood stove, pool, pre-built shed, etc., manufacturer’s specifications of the construction/installation.

5. For septic systems, an engineered septic plan approved by the Tioga County Health Department (607-687-8565).

6a. If a contractor will be building the structure, the applicant must provide a Certificate of Workers Compensation Insurance coverage (New York State form C-105.2) and a certificate of liability insurance.

6b. Contractors who claim exemption from NYS Workers Compensation Insurance and homeowners who act as their own contractor must go to the NYS Workers Compensation website to complete form CE-200 and provide a printed copy to accompany the building permit application;

7. If the applicant is building a single-family residence and will disturb an acre or more (for example, a residence including driveway, accessory building, garage, septic system, utilities, etc.) a Storm water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) is required. To determine if your project meets this requirement, download the Single Family House Phase II Acre Determination Worksheet Acre Determination Worksheet (PDF).

8. Provide a total cost of the project.

9. Applicant’s signature agreeing to contact the for specific required inspections. The town cannot issue a Certificate of Compliance or a Certificate of Occupancy if the required inspections are not scheduled and approved.