FAQs

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.

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?

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.