Town of Colonie

Building permits are required for new construction, alterations or additions, demolition, and new commercial tenants.

Note: Contact the Building and Fire Services to determine permit requirements for your specific project.

Building code

New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code and Energy Code

Permit validity

Varies by permit type; contact the Building and Fire Services for details.

Owner-builder

Contact the Building and Fire Services for owner-builder requirements.

Contractor requirements

Contractors must comply with New York State licensing and insurance requirements.

1. 01
   Review the appropriate permit guide (residential, commercial, pool, sign, etc.) from the Building and Fire Services page.
2. 02
   Complete the required application.
3. 03
   Prepare site/plot plan and project-specific supporting documents.
4. 04
   Submit the application to the Building Department.
5. 05
   Pay the permit fee.
6. 06
   Wait for review (typically 5-15 business days) and permit issuance before starting work.

Typical processing time: 5 to 15 business days for residential permits; contact the department for commercial or specialized permits.

Source: Building and Fire Services ↗

Checks payable to Town of Colonie; certain transactions also allow credit card payments with service fee.

Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.

• 518-783-2706 or 518-783-2712 (phone)

Typical sequence: The department requires permit holders to schedule inspections as applicable to the permit category. Example: final inspection is required before a certificate of compliance is issued for pools.