Property Improvements

Property owners have the right to develop or improve their property and structures in compliance with Town Code. When doing so, they are responsible for ensuring building permits are obtained from the Building Department PRIOR to work being started when they intend to:

  • construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure
  • install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical or plumbing system
  • install a solid fuel burning heating appliance, chimney, or flue in any dwelling unit (installation is regulated by New York State Building Codes)

Property owners are also responsible for closing the loop on permitted projects, ensuring that all required inspections have been performed—including the final inspection—and that a Certificate of Occupancy/Certificate of Compliance has been issued by the Town of Penfield. Failure to complete this process will complicate future projects and delay real estate transactions.

The Building Department issues building permits enforces the New York Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, Town Laws, The Town Zoning Ordinance, Town Design Criteria and conditions of approval from the Town Board, Planning Board, and Zoning Board.

General answers to popular topics are addressed below. Please call the Building Department at (585) 340-8636 for answers to your specific questions.

Do I Need a Permit?

Accessory Structures (sheds, barns, gazebos, ...)

Decks and Patios

Driveway Right-of-Ways

Fences

Finished Basements

Standby Generators

Within Historic Districts