Tonawanda, NY Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)

Section 54-5.A requires a building and/or plumbing permit before starting any work that must conform to the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code or the Energy Code, covering construction, enlargement, alteration, improvement, removal, relocation and demolition of a building or structure, and installation of a solid-fuel-burning heating appliance, chimney or flue. The Code Enforcement Officer, created under § 54-4, reviews and approves applications, which under § 54-5.I must be examined within 60 days of a complete submission. Applications go through § 54-5.F: they need a description of the work, the Tax Map number and street address, occupancy classification, at least two sets of construction documents prepared by a licensed architect or engineer where the Education Law requires it, and the applicable fee set under § 54-20.

A permit becomes invalid if work has not started within six months of issuance and expires 12 months after issuance under § 54-5.L, though it can be renewed on application and payment of the fee. The Code Enforcement Officer can revoke or suspend a permit issued in error or where the work violates the Uniform Code or Energy Code, per § 54-5.M. Subsection B lists exemptions, including small detached sheds under 144 square feet, playground equipment, most fences, certain retaining walls and minor repairs, but § 54-5.C makes clear an exemption from the permit requirement never authorizes work that violates the Uniform Code or Energy Code.