Rochester New York Building Permit Guide

Rochester homeowners should check the Building Permit Office before roofing, decks, new structures, sheds, changes of use, structural repairs, demolition, home occupations, parking lots, or trade work.

Permit takeaway

Rochester says permits are typically required for new construction, additions, alterations, fire damage repairs, sheds larger than 144 square feet, changes of use, structural repairs, demolitions, and decks more than 18 inches above grade.

Zoning and placement

Permits are required to ensure compliance with both Rochester zoning and the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, and preservation districts or Buildings of Historic Value may need a Certificate of Appropriateness.

Building and trade review

Rochester handles permit applications through its online portal, and many projects require inspections before work can move to the next stage.

Call before applying when

Call before applying if the project includes a deck, shed, roof, driveway, retaining wall, HVAC, plumbing, electrical reconnect, change of use, demolition, or historic or preservation district property.

Documents to prepare

• Online permit application
• Site plan
• Drawings
• Proof of insurance or contractor registration
• Historic approval when applicable

Inspection planning

• Apply online
• Post the permit visibly
• Find assigned inspector
• Schedule required inspections
• Obtain certificate of compliance or occupancy when applicable

Official sources

• Rochester Building Permits
• Rochester Permit Inspections
• Rochester Permit Types and Applications

This guide is a planning summary. Always verify the current requirements with the local office before starting work.