Building fees vary depending on the type of project, but are typically based on square footage. Please see the posted fee schedule for details.

Permits are issued as quickly as possible, following a complete review for compliance with all applicable State and Local building and zoning codes. This typically takes between one business day for minor applications and several weeks for larger projects.

Incomplete applications cannot be accepted for review, and will result in delays.

You have the right to file for a variance from the Town’s Zoning Board of Appeals.  Please see the posted application form for an area variance for a checklist outlining the application process and required documentation.

Setbacks vary according to the zone you are in.  A list of setbacks for the various zones is found in Appendix B of the Town Zoning Code.

A second residential structure on your property will need approval by the Town Planning.  You should know before you proceed that Town code requires that you have double the acreage of the zone you are in.  For instance if you are in a 10 acre zone, you would be required to have 20 acres of land.  Furthermore, Department of Health approval will be required.

As required by State law, building permits for projects which cost over $20,000 may not be issued unless stamped plans have been provided, with the exception of: certain structures used directly and solely for agricultural purposes, OR single family dwellings of 1,500 square feet or less.

Yes.  Demolition permits are required for the removal of a structure or the substantial alteration of a structure.

As in all other municipalities which are required to enforce the New York State Building Codes, a permit is required for any tent larger than 400 square feet, except those used exclusively for recreational camping, or those open on all sides and no larger than 700 square feet, individually or in aggregate.

Inspections vary depending on the project. Typical inspections for an addition or new construction building include: a pre application site visit, footing inspection, inspection prior to pouring foundation walls or slab, framing inspection, rough electrical, HVAC and plumbing inspection (with pressure test), roofing underlayment and flashing inspection, and a final inspection upon completion. Various third party inspections may also be required, including: independent electrical inspection, or blower door testing for energy code compliance.

As in all municipalities required to enforce the New York State Building Code, a building permit is required before beginning any work, except that which is specifically exempted from requiring a permit under 19-NYCRR Part 1203.3. Most work involving cutting, modifying, or replacing structural components, the installation of permanent heating and cooling equipment such as heat pumps, installation of fuel gas piping or propane tanks, roof replacements, electrical work, pellet or wood stove installation, installation of any swimming pool deeper than 24" and even replacement windows and doors will require a permit. Typical work which is exempt from permit requirements includes: playground equipment, sheds smaller than 144 square feet, and the direct replacement of HVAC equpipment or water heaters which does not differ from the original specifications. 

Both your tax grid ID number and zoning district can be easily found by searching the Dutchess County ParcelAccess mapping tool. In addition to viewing a full property card which gives this information, several other useful tools exist, including map layers which shown wetlands, and a measuring tool which can be used to get approximate distances to property lines.

https://gis.dutchessny.gov/parcelaccess/