Elmira Fire Department


Permits
Before you build, make sure you have a permit There is a great risk to individuals when a structure is modified without a permit. Permits notify the City of your intention to change the structure. The City can then complete the necessary inspections to ensure that the work is done according to building, fire, and zoning codes. This ensures the safety of you, your visitors, and the public in general. Many tragedies have resulted from structures being improperly constructed or modified without obtaining a permit and the proper inspections.

Why do I need a permit?
A permit informs the City of your anticipated plans to change your structure. As the work progresses, inspections are required to ensure that all building codes, local ordinances, safety precautions, etc. are followed. If you fail to obtain a permit, the City may take action and issue a fine of $100 plus double the permit fee and/or a stop work order.

When do I need a permit?
New York State and the City of Elmira Code of Ordinances mandate when a permit is required. The following is for use as a guideline:

FOR RESIDENTIAL PURPOSES

  • New construction of homes, garages and carports
  • Addition and alterations of buildings
  • Storage buildings, including prefabricated buildings delivered to site
  • Decks and porches
  • Enclosing porches, decks
  • Extending roofs over decks and porches
  • Rebuilding and structural renovations
  • Swimming pools above and inground, including decks around pools
  • Installation of woodstoves, fireplaces, and chimneys
  • Demolition and removal of buildings
  • Vinyl siding
  • Replacement windows
  • Roofing
  • Any change to electrical and plumbing
  • Installation of water heaters, furnaces
  • Sidewalk installation or repair
  • Fences (permit is free)

COMMERCIAL PURPOSES

  • New construction
  • Most improvements, alterations, enlargements, repairs and change of tenants
  • Signs, including temporary signs
  • Change of Occupancy

If you aren't sure if you need a permit, contact Inspection Services at (607) 737-5654.

When are permits not required?

RESIDENTIAL

  • Non-structural necessary repairs under $2,000
  • Internal improvements without electrical or plumbing changes less than $2,000

COMMERCIAL

  • Check with Inspection Services

Even if you think you don't need a permit, it is always a good idea to check with us first!

How much will a permit cost?
The cost of the permit depends on the size and scope of your project. The permit fee includes the cost of our staff to review your plans and perform all of the necessary inspections.
»Click here for the permit fee schedule

How do I obtain a building permit?
You can download building permits and information sheets for different project types from the Permits and Applications section of this website. You can also stop into the Elmira Fire Department Fire Headquarters at 101 W. Second Street (map) during business hours and pick up an application.
»Click here to download permit applications

How do I obtain other permits?
You can download plumbing permits, electrical permits, demolition permits, and more from the Permits and Applications section of this website. You can also stop into the Elmira Fire Department Fire Headquarters at 101 W. Second Street (map) during business hours and pick up or return permit applications.
»Click here to download permit applications

You can download excavation permits, sidewalk permits, curbcut permits, and sewer cap-off permits from the Permits and Applications section of this website or stop into the Public Services Administration Office in Room C320 on the third floor of City Hall at 317 E. Church Street (map) during business hours and pick up or return a permit application.
»Click here to download permit applications

Residential Building Code Design Criteria
All structures in the City of Elmira must be built to the following design criteria:

CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA
Ground snow load 45lbs
Wind speed 80 mph
Seismic design category C
Weathering severe
Frost line depth 42"
Termite moderate to heavy
Decay slight to moderate
Winter design temperature -2 degrees Fahrenheit
Ice shield underlayment eaves edge to a point 24 inches inside
exterior wall line
Flood hazards Adopted 11/13/84 FIRM Adopted 4/2/97
(flood map)
Energy zone zone 15

For more information on Residential Building Codes for the City of Elmira, schedule an appointment to meet with an inspector in our office.

Frequently Asked Questions on Building Permits

How long does it take to obtain a building permit?
If all documentation is received and insurance papers are in order usually within a day. However, new construction, major additions and other permits could take up to two weeks depending on work load.

How long is a building permit good for?
A permit is good for one year from the date of issue.

What building permit inspections are required?
During construction inspection of footers, foundation, framing, insulation, plumbing, electrical and a final inspection to close out the permit is required.
»more information on Inspections

What if I live in a Historic District?
The purpose of the Historic Districts is to preserve, protect, enhance, and perpetuate the heritage of the City by preserving buildings, structures, and sites which reflect elements of the City's cultural, social, economic, political, or architectural history.

Any work that affects the exterior appearance of a building or structure in a historic district requires approval by the Historic Preservation Commission. It is STRONGLY recommended that before proceeding with any work you arrange a consultation with Inspection Services. They will advise you of the requirements to maintain the guidelines of the Historic District and the materials you are required to use.
»more on the Historic Preservation Commission
»Map of the Historic Districts in Elmira

How do I obtain a Certificate of Occupancy?
All final inspections must be performed and an application for a Certificate of Occupancy must be on file with the office. A Certificate of Occupancy is required for all new residential and commercial structures prior to occupancy.
»Click here for a Certificate of Occupancy Application

How do I obtain a Letter of Compliance?
An inspection must be performed and an application for a Letter of Compliance must be on file with the office. A Letter of Compliance confirms that the property for which it is issued is currently in compliance with all applicable building and maintenance codes.
»Click here for a Letter of Compliance Application