Why do I need to obtain a permit?

In accordance with New York State Building codes, and The Code Of The Village Of Valley Stream, different types of permits may be required to be obtained prior to the commencement of certain types of projects and land improvements; this, is to promote the safety, health, and general welfare of the public, while ensuring projects comply with applicable New York State building codes, and Village of Valley Stream codes.

What types of permits are there?

The Building Department administers the handling and issuance of all different types of permits relating to construction and land improvement – including, but not limited to:

• Building permits
• Plumbing permits
• Electrical permits
• Fence permits
• Sign permits
• Pool permits
• Lines & Grades permits
• Floodplain Development permits
• Subdivisions
• Dumpster permits
• Permits for Temporary Structures
• Permits for temporary Storage Containers

When do I need to obtain a permit?

The best way to determine if a permit is required for your project is to contact the Building Department directly.  Some of the most common projects that require permitting may include, but are not limited to:

• New buildings (residential and commercial)
• Additions and “dormers”
• Interior alterations
• Decks
• New and replacement Windows/storefronts/other glazing (residential and commercial)
• Patios, and exterior terraces
• Exterior siding, and all other exterior finishing of buildings/structures
• Exterior painting of buildings and structures
• Finished basements and cellars
• New and direct replacement of: driveways, sidewalks, steps, walkways, pavers
• Exterior stairways to basements and cellars
• Pools (above and in-ground)
• Hot tubs
• Solar panel installations
• Demolition of buildings and structures
• All plumbing work (including direct replacement of existing fixtures)
• All electrical work (including direct replacement of existing fixtures)
• Fences
• Exterior signs
• Dumpsters
• Temporary/permanent placement of Storage Containers
• Changes in use and/or occupancy of buildings or structures

Does a contractor need to be licensed to perform construction work?

Contractors may require to be licensed based on the type of work they are performing:

• Any contractor performing work on a private residence or dwelling not larger than 3 families, must obtain a Home Improvement License from the Nassau County Department of Consumer Affairs.
• Any plumber or electrician performing any and all such work must be licensed with the Inc. Village of Valley Stream.
• Any fence installer must be registered with the Inc. Village of Valley Stream.
• Any dumpster/carting company must be registered with the Inc. Village of Valley Stream.

It is important to note that all contractors are required to comply with New York State Workers’ Compensation Law, and carry all necessary insurance.

Can a homeowner perform their own construction work?

Yes, there are exemptions in New York State Workers’ Compensation Law that permits homeowners to perform their own construction work, or, elect to cover contractors under their own private insurance for such construction work.  We have the necessary forms available for your use at Village Hall.

It is important to note that these exemptions apply to general construction work only. Any and all plumbing and/or electric work must be performed by a plumber and/or electrician currently licensed with the Inc. Village of Valley Stream.

Can the Building Department refer a contractor or builder?

No, it is considered a conflict of interest for the Building Department to refer a contractor or builder to the public.

Available at your request, we have current lists of all Village of Valley Stream licensed and/or registered: plumbers, electricians, fence contractors, dumpster/carting companies.

CLICK HERE to find out if a contractor is licensed to operate in Nassau County. 

Can the Building Department refer an Architect or Engineer?

No, it is considered a conflict of interest for the Building Department to refer an Architect or Engineer to the public.

What do I need to file for a permit?

Various documents may be required to be submitted with your application package based on the scope of work, and type of permit.  Application documents and forms are available at Village Hall.

Although the application process may seem overwhelming, we at the Building Department want to ensure that your understanding of the application requirements is achieved in a courteous and professional manner.  Please feel free to contact the Building Department directly to speak with any one of our staff who can assist you.

I successfully submitted a permit application package, what’s next?

Your application package will be reviewed by our Inspectors and Plans Examiners in a timely manner.

In order to not experience unnecessary delays during examination, it is important to ensure that your application package is complete.  We highly suggest you contact the Building Department prior to your submission of an application package.

My Building Permit has been denied, what can I do?

If you have submitted a building permit application, and received a letter of denial from the Building Department, you may file for an appeal to the Board of Appeals; contact the Building Department for further information regarding this procedure.

My Permit was approved, what’s next?

After receiving your approved permit package, your project may commence and be performed in accordance with the construction documents which were submitted with and accepted as part of the application for the Building Permit.

How do I know if my project requires inspections?  What kind of inspections do I need?

The documentation provided in your permit package will describe the kind, and the extent of inspections your project will need.  You may also contact the Building Department directly and inquire.

It is important to note that your project may additionally require inspections be performed by agencies other than the Inc. Village of Valley Stream, based on the scope of work.  Consult your permit package documentation, and the Building Department, to ensure all necessary inspections are completed.

How do I schedule an inspection with the Building Department?

Contact the Building Department directly to schedule for an inspection.  Have the project’s address and permit number ready to give to our staff.

Building Department inspections take place between the hours of 10am-12pm, Monday-Friday.

Does my Building Permit expire?

1. In accordance with The Code Of The Village Of Valley Stream, a building permit expires 12 months from the date of issuance.

Can my Building Permit be extended?

In accordance with The Code Of The Village Of Valley Stream, the holder of the permit may apply in writing to the Supervisor of the Building Department for an extension of the original Building Permit.  The Supervisor of the Building Department, upon their review of the request, may extend the permit at six month intervals (not to exceed 36 months) upon payment of one-half (1/2) of the original permit fee.  Contact the Building Department for additional information.

What are the Clerk’s Department hours?

The Clerk’s Department is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday – Friday.

How can I contact the Clerk’s Department?

Village Hall at 825-4200 and press 5

Fax the Clerk’s Department at 825-8316

E-mail at vsclrk2@vsvny.org

When are the Board of Trustee meetings?

The Board of Trustees Work Session - First Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in the Board Room.

The Board of Trustees Regular Meeting – Third Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m. in the Court Room.  Please see “Meetings” link for dates and/or changes.

Where can I obtain a copy of the Board minutes of a meeting?

Please see the “Meetings” link and scroll to the bottom.  For inquiries, call the Clerk’s Department at 825-4200 ext. 5105.

Does the Village license animals?

The Clerk’s Department issues dog licenses.  Dogs four months and older require a license.  A certificate of spaying or neutering must be presented when obtaining a license.  The fee is $10.00 for each spayed or neutered dog and $18.00 for each unspayed or unneutered dog.  For inquiries or an application, call the Clerk’s Department at 825-4200 ext. 5114.

Does the Village have a dog park?

The Village Community Dog Park is located adjacent to the Village Hall parking area.  Annual Village Dog Park membership is $22.00 for residents, $60.00 for Central High School District Residents, and $125.00 for Town of Hempstead residents.

Dogs must be licensed and a dog park application can be obtained at the Clerk’s Department.  For inquiries or an application, call the Clerk’s Department at 825-4200 ext. 5114.

 
How do I obtain my birth certificate or a copy of a death certificate?

The Clerk’s Department has records of those who have been born or have died in the home or streets of the Village.  The cost for a certified copy is $10.00.  For inquiries or an application, call the Registrar’s office at 825-4200 ext. 5105. Click here to download Copy of Death Record - DOH-294a. Click here to download Copy of Birth Record - DOH-296a.

 
Do I need to license my business with the Village?

Businesses in the Village must be licensed.  After the business complies with all Building Department requirements, the Clerk’s Department issues a Mercantile Permit.  This permit licenses your business with the Village and the fee is $375.00 for a 5 year permit.  For inquiries or an application, call 825-4200 ext. 5114 or visit our licensing portal here.

Where do I register to vote or get an absentee voter ballot for a National Election?

Call Nassau County Board of Elections at 571-2411.

 
Where do I register to vote or get an absentee voter ballot for a Village Election?

Call the Clerk’s Department at 825-4200 ext. 5105.

 
Are door to door solicitors licensed?

Under the Code of the Village of Valley Stream there is generally no door-to-door solicitation. See the link for Village Codes. 

 
How do I obtain a Village Parking Permit?

The Clerk’s Department issues Resident, Non-Resident Commuter, Business and Commercial Parking permits.  See the "Permits" link.

 
Can I park overnight in the street?

There is no overnight parking on the streets of the Inc. Village of Valley Stream between the hours of 3:30 a.m. to 5:30 a.m.

 
What happens if I have guests staying overnight? 

The Clerk’s Department can issue a temporary parking permit.  For this permit call the Clerk’s Department at 825-4200 ext. 5114.

 
How can I obtain a handicap permit?

Download Handicap Permit Application MV-664.1 from our website here.  You can also get more information and/or download forms at New York State Department of Motor Vehicles website http://www.dmv.ny.gov/forms.htm.  Resident completes Part 1, doctor completes Part 2.  Bring this form with your driver’s license to the Village Hall Clerk’s Department.

If you do not live in the village but need a handicap permit, call Nassau County Office of the Physically Challenged at 516-227-7399.

 
What are the licenses issued in the Clerk’s Department?

Besides dog licenses, the Clerk’s Department issues  licenses to second hand dealers, tow car companies, peddlers, fence contractors, private carters, landscape/gardeners, used car dealers and taxi drivers.  For inquiries and/or an application call 825-4200 ext. 5105.

How do I submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIL) request?

FOIL requests are submitted to the Clerk’s Department.  Forms may be obtained at the Clerk’s Department.  For further inquiries, call 825-4200 ext. 5105. Download FOIL application here.

 
Where do I obtain a passport?

Passports may be obtained at the Post Office (825-8739) or at Hempstead Town Hall (489-5000).

 
Where do I get a marriage license?

Marriages licenses may be obtained at Hempstead Town Hall.  For inquiries, call 489-5000. 

 
What do I do to have a block party?

Please complete and submit a Block Party application at least three weeks before your event. Click here to download an application.  For inquiries, call the Clerk’s Department at 825-4200 ext. 5106.

Where is the Community Center located?

The Community Center is located within Hendrickson Park at lakeside steps away from the Valley Stream Miniature Golf Course.


When is the Community Center open?

We are open 7 days a week. Monday – Friday 9AM – 9PM. Saturday and Sunday 8AM – 9PM.


At one time I would go to the “Administration Building” which is now the Community Center for my Pool Passes, where are the Pool Passes processed now?

Pool Passes are available at the Pool Complex.

Parking Stickers are available at the Valley Stream Village Hall.


What is the telephone number to the Community Centers?

The Community Center’s telephone number is: 516-825-8571.


What type of activities are available at the Community Center?

We offer programs for all ages, including:
- The Senior Citizen Program called “The Silver Threads” free to join for all Valley Stream Seniors.
- Zumba Classes
- Chair Yoga ($5 per class)
- Yoga
- Tae Kwon Do


Do we need a parking sticker in order to park strictly at the Community Center?

If you are using the facilities within the Community Center a parking sticker is not needed.

Where are you located?

Our address is 123 South Central Avenue, between Sunrise Hwy and Merrick Rd.


What are your hours?
Office hours are 8 AM to 4 PM (payment window open 8AM to 3:45PM), Monday through Friday.
Court begins at 6 PM. Check website for schedule.

Moving violations:

I have been issued a moving violation by a police officer. What do I do now?

You may plead guilty in person or by mail. Sign Part A, return it to this office with a copy of your license. You will receive a fine letter. (payments must be by money order or certified check, or in person with cash or credit card - Visa or Mastercard – with photo ID).

You may plead not guilty by signing Part B, and returning it to this office with a copy of your license or photo ID. You will receive a letter scheduling you for a conference.

Does this violation carry points?

All points are assessed by the NYS DMV. Please check their website for information regarding points.

Parking tickets:

The meter was broken. What can I do?

Contact this office as soon as possible (516-825-4200 ex. 5602) so that a report can be made, and the meter inspected.

I want to plead not guilty to a parking ticket. How can I do that?

You may mail your plea to this office. You will receive a letter scheduling you for a court date.



**For more information about the Village Court, please click here**

To acquire a new bin you have two choices.  You may bring it up to 175 Arlington Avenue and we will replace it with a new one for you.  Or, you may call the Sanitation Department at 516-825-8108 and we will set up a day for you to leave it outside and the supervisor will come and swap it out for you.

To acquire a new bin if you should lose your original one, there is a fee.  The charge for a new bin is $10.00 payable by check.  You could come to the Sanitation office located at 175 Arlington Avenue and purchase one.  Or, you may print out the form on the Sanitation home page and mail it in with your check.

You may place old phone books out with your magazines and newspapers by tying them up and placing them next to your recycle bin.

No, unfortunately we are not able to recycle those materials at this time.

Light bulbs go out with your regular garbage and should not be placed in your recycle bins.

No, neither plastic or wire hangers go in your recycle bin.  To dispose of such items please place them in your regular garbage.

Unfortunately, at this time we do not accept colored cardboard for our recycle collection.  We can only accept plain brown corrugated cardboard.  Any other cardboard is to be placed out with the regular garbage.

No, unfortunately at this time we can only accept #1 and #2 plastics.  You will find this number underneath the item.  There is a triangle with a number on the bottom of all plastics.  If it is #1 or #2 then you can place it in your recycle bin.  All other plastics should be placed with your regular garbage. 

No, the Village does not accept that material for recycling.  You may place it with your regular garbage.

*Any other questions call the Sanitation Department at 516-825-8108*

**For additional information about recycling, please click here**

Village code states no pail should be larger than 32 gallons.

The Sanitation Department is open from 7 a.m. till 2 p.m. for dumping.

We are located at 175 Arlington Avenue, Valley Stream, NY 11580.

Yes there is.  Construction debris including but not limited to, wood, sheetrock, paneling, flooring etc. is $120.00 per ton.  Agriculture, grass, leaves and tree debris is $90.00 per ton.  Concrete is $60.00 per ton.

We ONLY accept checks at this time.

You will need a check and your license in order to be able to dump at our facility.

Batteries are now accepted as part of our E-Waste collection.  You can either drop off your batteries or you may call to have a pick up scheduled at 516-825-8108.

Agriculture may only be placed at the curb on Wednesdays.  There will be no Agriculture collection during the week if Monday is an Observed Village Holiday.  See the Holiday Schedule for more details or call the Sanitation office at 516-825-8108. 

According to Village Code, Garbage may be placed at the curb after 6 p.m. the night before your scheduled collection.

According to Village Code, you are permitted to have 250 pounds of garbage per week.  Anything more than this is considered excessive and will not be picked up.

The Sanitation Department begins picking up garbage at 6:30 a.m.  Garbage should be placed at the curb prior to this time.


**For additional information about sanitation, please click here**

Who can sign up for the Valley Stream Seniors “Silver Threads” program?

If you are a resident of Valley Stream and of the age of 55 or older you may sign up to become a member. There is no membership fee. Proof of residency and date of birth required.

When do the “Silver Threads” meet?

The senior program at the Community Center is 4 days a week: Tuesday’s 10am to Noon, Wednesday’s 11am to 4pm, Thursday’s 1pm to 4pm, and Friday’s 11am to 4pm. With the exception of Monday’s for the scheduled trips to Green Acres Mall. Below please find a list of activities:

Bingo
Knitting/Crocheting
Games: Domino’s, Mahjong, Rummikub and Scrabble
Card Games
Bocce (seasonal)
Chair Yoga
Bus trips to Aqueduct, Green Acres Mall, King Kullen, Trader Joe's, Key Food, Panera Bread, Food World, and Valley Stream Library
A day of Beauty trip offered by the Cosmetology Dept at Central H.S. (Available September - June)
AARP Defense Driving Course offered at the Community Center (The fourth Friday of each month, September through May)
Various Holiday Parties
Lectures/Speakers

I am already a member of the “Silver Threads” how can I arrange to be picked up by the Valley Stream Senior bus in order to participate on the trips?

In order to arrange for a bus pick up please call the Community Center at 516-825-8571

Can Men sign up for the “Silver Threads”?

Absolutely! The men can play cards, Bocce Ball and participate in any of the other activities that the group may be involved with, including Trips, Games and socializing.

Do I need a parking sticker when “strictly” parking at the Community Center?

Yes, once you have signed up to become a Silver Thread, you will then receive a Community Center parking sticker.

Is the Community Center Handicap Accessible?

Yes, the Community Center is Handicap friendly.

Do you allow smoking or pets at the Community Center?

Smoking and pets are prohibited.

When are Village Taxes Due?

Village taxes are paid annually and are due June 1^st and payable without penalty no later than July 1^st.  Payments can be made by cash, check, or money order made payable to Valley Stream Receiver of Taxes and should have the Parcel Section, Block and Lot on it. Taxes can be paid in person, through the mail, or online at www.vsvny.org .

What is the penalty on late taxes paid late?

Any taxes received after July 1^st are subject to a five percent penalty for July and an additional one percent per month penalty thereafter.

Do you accept a payment postmarked by July 1^st but received after the due date?

Yes, we do accept payments as of U.S. postmark date.

Can I make a payment by Check or Credit/Debit Card?

Checks are accepted by mail and in-person at the Village Hall

Credit/Debit card payments can only be made online through Munitrax which can be found here

Fees are as follows:

Check/Debit card: $3.00 flat fee (up to $5000 tax payment)

Credit card:  2.5% of payment

Can I make a partial payment?

No, unfortunately, the Village at no time accepts partial payment of taxes.

What happens if I can’t pay my taxes?

Taxes unpaid after July 1^st will be subject to a five percent penalty for July and an additional one percent per month thereafter until the first Tuesday in May, at which point they will be sold at the annual Lien Sale.

I just purchased my house.  How do I have the owner and mailing address changed?

All mailing and ownership changes must be done in writing. For new owners, please be sure to include the new owners name and correct mailing address, the property address and Section Block and Lot as well as a copy of the deed. For mailing address changes please be sure to include the new mailing address as well as the property address and Section, Block and Lot.

My mortgage was recently satisfied.  Is there anything I need to do?

Many residents assume that their mortgage company will notify us of the satisfaction, but this is not always true. Once you receive notification of your mortgage being satisfied, send a copy of that along with a letter stating how your name should appear on the bill and an address where all future bills should be mailed.

What can I do if I feel my property is being over assessed?

Any property owner has the right to challenge their property assessment either individually or through a representative. The grievance filing period is February 1^st through the third Tuesday of February which is Grievance Night from 4PM-8PM where the Board of Assessment Review meets to go over all the complaints filed. For any complaints denied, the next step is filing a Small Claims Petition which can be filed after obtaining a Nassau County Small Claims court AR number between April 1^st and May 1^st, again individually or through a representative.

How do I get a S.T.A.R. exemption on my property?

The S.T.A.R. exemption is a reduction of school taxes which are payable to the Town of Hempstead, not the Village of Valley Stream. Any questions or requests for information or application on the S.T.A.R. program should be directed to Nassau County Department of Assessment at 516-571-1500 or www.nassaucountyny.gov.

I am turning 65.  Do you offer any tax relief for Senior Citizens?

The Village offers a Senior Citizen exemption to any person 65 and over making a total household income of less than $28,900 which includes all reportable income including Social Security. The filing period is September 1^st thru December 31^st. Please call September 1^st for an application.

I am a Veteran.  Do you offer any tax relief for Veterans?

The Village offers an Alternative Veterans exemption to those Veterans who have served during a war time. We offer a 15% exemption for those Veterans who served during a war time and an additional 10% for those who served in a combat zone. We also offer additional exemption to those Veterans that are disabled at the rate of half the total Veterans disability. We also offer a 10% Cold War Veterans exemption to those Veterans who didn’t serve during a “war time”. Please call for further information and an application.

Does the Village offer any tax relief for persons with disabilities?

The Village offers a Disability exemption for persons on Social Security Disability whose total household income is less than 28,900 per year which includes Social Security and all reportable income. The filing period for this exemption is September 1^st thru December 31^st. For further information or an application, please contact our office at 516-825-4200.

Does the Village offer tax relief for Firefighters?

The Incorporated Village of Valley Stream offers a 10% exemption to all Valley Stream Fire Department Firefighters with more than 5 years of service. The filing period is September 1^st thru December 31^st.  For an application, please call our office.