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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Kent
Building permits are required for erection, construction, enlargement, alteration, removal, demolition, conversion, or change in use or occupancy. Includes dwellings, sheds, additions, renovations, demolitions, porches, decks, pool decks, arbors, sunrooms, greenhouses, gazebos, garages, carports, finished basements, structural replacements, heating equipment, fuel tanks, wiring, plumbing, LP-gas work, pools over 24 inches deep, hot tubs, fences higher than 6 feet, and accessory structures over 36 square feet.
- Exempt One-story detached playhouses up to 80 square feet
- Exempt Above-ground pools under 24 inches deep
- Exempt Fences 6 feet and under (not pool enclosures)
- Exempt Retaining walls 3 feet and under
- Exempt Painting, wallpapering, tiling, carpeting, or similar finish work
- Exempt Temporary clip/snap/interlock sheds under 36 square feet
- Exempt Repairs that do not affect structural elements, egress, building systems, or fire protection
Note: Exempt work must still comply with zoning requirements. Confirm edge cases with the Building Department before proceeding.
- Completed permit application
- Homeowner signature
- Estimated construction cost
- Stamped plans by NY licensed architect or engineer (if cost exceeds $20,000)
- Putnam County contractor information (if applicable)
- Building code
- New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, New York State Energy Code
- Permit validity
- Permit valid for reasonable construction period; may be renewed for 6-month increments.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders must provide their signature and comply with all permit requirements.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must hold a valid Putnam County license.
Application process
Typical processing: 2-4 weeks for initial review, longer if additional board approvals are required.
- 01 Review Kent Building Department permit requirements and fee schedule.
- 02 Determine if proposed work requires a permit.
- 03 Prepare completed permit application with property information, work description, and estimated cost.
- 04 If project cost exceeds $20,000, prepare stamped plans by a New York licensed architect or engineer.
- 05 Submit application and all required documents to the Building Department.
- 06 Pay applicable permit fees based on estimated construction cost.
- 07 Building Department may request additional review if project involves wetlands or significant soil disturbance.
- 08 Schedule inspections and obtain certificates of occupancy or compliance upon completion.
Typical processing time: 2-4 weeks for initial review, longer if additional board approvals are required.
Fee schedule
Effective January 2025
Application fee: $50. Supplement or extension: $75 for 6 months. Certificate of Occupancy or Compliance: $100.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective January 2025) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- 845-225-3900 (phone)
- Building Department office (in-person)
- Scheduling deadline
- Confirm specific intervals with Building Department for project type
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday, standard business hours
Typical sequence: Periodic inspections required at specified intervals; confirm exact sequence with Building Department.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Kent permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Kent, NY? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Kent, NY? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Kent, NY? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Kent, NY? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Kent, NY? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Kent, NY? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Town of Kent Building Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.