Amherst, NY Building Safety: Plumbing Permits (2026)

Section 83-5-2 flatly bars commencing any plumbing, drainage or sewer contracting work in any building, structure or parking lot or on any premises without first obtaining a plumbing permit or quick permit from the Commissioner of Building for that occurrence. Applications must come from a licensed master or employing plumber, a licensed sewer contractor, or the homeowner if the Commissioner approves homeowner filing, and must include the fee prescribed by the fee schedule. As with other permits under Chapter 83, a plumbing permit expires if actual work is not begun within six months of issuance, unless the Commissioner postpones that expiration for circumstances beyond the applicant's control; work that does start must be completed within two years or the permit lapses, forcing removal of the work or a fresh application under the codes in effect at that time, with any follow-up permit needing completion within six months of its own issuance.

If work begins before the permit is issued, the fee doubles or increases by $50, whichever is greater, on top of any other penalty. A canceled, expired or abandoned permit can be returned for a refund equal to half the fees paid, with the Town retaining a minimum of $10, except that no refund issues once work has commenced and the permit has since expired. A plumbing permit can be revoked for a false statement, incomplete information, or work performed out of step with the approved plans, and no replacement permit can issue while a violation remains outstanding.