Cayuga County, NY Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)

Section 132-4 of the Code of Cayuga County, part of Chapter 132 (Building Code Administration and Enforcement), states that a building permit is required for any work which must conform to the Uniform Code and/or Energy Code, including construction, enlargement, alteration, improvement, removal, relocation or demolition of a building or structure, and installation of a solid-fuel-burning heating appliance, chimney or flue in a dwelling unit. No one may commence permit-required work without first obtaining the permit from the Code Enforcement Officer. Applications under Subsection D must be in writing, signed by the owner or an authorized agent, and include a project description, the Tax Map number and street address, occupancy classification, a special-inspections statement where applicable, and at least one set of construction documents meeting the detail requirements of Subsection D(5), prepared by a licensed architect or engineer where the Education Law requires it.

Permits become invalid unless work commences within six months of issuance and expire 12 months after issuance under Subsection I, though they may be renewed on application and payment of the applicable fee. The Code Enforcement Officer may revoke or suspend a permit issued in error or where the authorized work violates the Uniform Code or Energy Code, per Subsection J, until the permit holder demonstrates compliance. Fees for building permits, amendments and renewals are set by County Legislature resolution under Section 132-16 and must be paid at the time of application submission.