Show All Answers

1. How do I file a complaint?

You can file a complaint by filling out a Building Department Complaint Form (PDF) (online form coming soon!) and delivering it in person to the Building Department at Town Hall or fax it to 914-769-3155.

2. What are the regulations and guidelines for removal and abandonment of oil tanks?

Any oil tank that is 1,100 gallons or above needs to be registered with Westchester County at the Westchester County Department of Health located in New Rochelle.

For the removal of any oil tank, a building permit and plumbing permits are required. The Building Inspector also requires inspections when the tank is removed. To apply for the building permit for an oil tank, please complete a building permit application in-person or online. A plumbing permit must also be filed by an oil tank company or licensed plumber.

3. When do I need an Elevator Permit?

All elevators require a Building Permit and yearly inspections. For elevator information contact the Building Department.

4. What if I have a question concerning zoning or construction on a neighbor's property?

At this time, all zoning questions require an in-office visit. If you have a complaint concerning zoning or construction on a neighbor's property, please file a formal complaint via email, mail or in person with the Building Department. Please be sure to include the address of the property and a detailed description of the complaint.

5. How do I obtain a Certificate of Occupancy or a Certificate of Compliance?

A Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Compliance will be issued after a permit is issued, applicable fees are paid, a final inspection is complete, and an Affidavit of Final Cost (notarized) is filed with the Building Department. If electrical work was done, an electrical certificate is needed.

6. How long do I have to wait to obtain a permit?

Permits can take up to 4 to 6 weeks. Commercial structures can take one month or longer to complete the review, depending on the size and detail of the plans.

7. What do I need a Building Permit for?

A permit is a formal document authorizing the commencement of some action or work on your home or property that is subject to Code regulations. Any structure or new construction added to the property and any work requiring electric and plumbing revision or replacement requires a permit as follows:

• Addition
• Basketball court
• Boiler
• Central air
• Deck
• Fence
• Greenhouse
• Hot tub
• Interior Alterations
• Pergola
• Permanent generator
• Pool
• Retaining wall
• Roof
• Solar panel
• Swing set
• Temporary tent/carport
• Tennis court
• Treehouse
• Storage shed
• Storage tank
• Structural change to stairs/steps

8. When do I need a Plumbing Permit?

Plumbing permits are required for all plumbing work performed in the Town of Mount Pleasant. Plumbers must be licensed by Westchester County. A letter from your plumber should be sent to the Building Department stating that all plumbing operations are in order at your premises and were performed in accordance with New York State Building code (current edition). For Plumbing information contact the Plumbing Inspector.

9. What happens if I start work without first obtaining a permit?

You will not be able to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy. The law provides that a Stop Work Order must be issued and fines may be imposed.

10. Are inspections required after the permit is issued?

Yes, construction inspections are required during the various phases of construction.

11. Do I need any other approvals from other departments prior to the Building Department?

Large-scale construction projects may also require approval from the Town Board, Planning Board and/or Zoning Board of Appeals, Engineering Department, Fire Department, New York State Department of Transportation, and Westchester County Department of Planning. For further information concerning zoning requirements, call the Building Department.

12. What do I need to know about Architectural Review Board Applications?

The Architectural Review Board reviews:

1. All applications for signage and facades on non-residential property.
2. All new construction and renovations - non-residential. Any changes (paint color, additions, etc.)

What do I need for an Architectural Review Board Application?

1. The applicant shall submit an application for Building Permit, an Architectural Board of Review Application, 11 copies of the certified survey and plans drawn to scale, and the required fee (as determined by the Building Department) to the Building Department.
2. Free Standing Signs and Signs on Building:
   1. Free Standing signs are considered a structure and must be approved by the Zoning Board of Appeals prior to being reviewed by the Architectural Board of Review. A separate application to the Zoning Board must be filed.
   2. Applicants for all signs must submit copies of a plan drawn to scale showing the dimensions of the front of the building and the location of the sign thereon. Complete dimensions of the sign and lettering must be indicated along with colors. Color samples of lettering and background should be submitted if possible.
   3. Copies of the survey or site plan must be submitted and, in the case of free-standing signs, the location of signs on the property must be shown with dimensions from the nearest building and the setback from the road. (Signs are not permitted on right-of-ways.)
   4. Details of the construction of signs, including the type of framing and method of fastening to the building should be provided. For a free-standing sign, the dimensions and height of the post that the sign will be mounted on should be provided. If lighting is to be used, indicate the type of lighting and wattage. Photographs are recommended in addition to the above.
3. New Construction and Renovations for Commercial Buildings
   1. Applicants must submit 11 sets of the survey, elevation drawings, and landscaping plans. In addition 1 complete set of construction drawings is to be submitted. Provide color samples of exterior building materials, i.e., block, brick stone, roof shingles, exterior plywood, windows, doors, railings, and color samples of trim, etc. Lighting details and type of fixture and details of the parking area, i.e. curbs, bumpers, plantings, and walkways. Photographs are recommended in addition to the above.

Please note: For reference, you can see a copy of these forms on the Forms and Applications page. These forms are carbonized and the original form must be picked up in the Building Department.

13. What do I need to know about Zoning Board of Appeals Applications?

1. The applicant shall submit an application for Zoning and Building Permit (must be signed by the owner) to the Building Department. Requirements are listed as follows:
   1. 8 sets of certified, current surveys indicating all existing and proposed structures with proper dimensions, setbacks, and lot area including decks, tool sheds, swimming pools, etc.
   2. Zoning Data Table
   3. Pay the required fee
   4. Meet with the Building Inspector
2. Upon denial of the application by the Building Department, the application is forwarded to the Zoning Board Office. Applicants should complete blue Zoning Board of Appeals application forms and make an appointment with the Zoning Administrator.
3. Applicant must submit forms in person and will be responsible for publishing the Public Notice in the Journal News and for the certified mailings to contiguous property owners.
4. Applicants will be shown on the tax map what properties have to be notified and must look up the names and mailing addresses.
5. The applicant will then be placed on the agenda for the next available meeting. Applications must be submitted at least 15 days before a meeting to get on the calendar.
6. A decision is usually rendered the night of the meeting unless it is adjourned by the Board.
7. Upon receipt of the written decision of the Board, a building permit must be obtained from the Building Inspector prior to the start of construction.