Unincorporated Putnam County

Building permits are required for new construction, additions, alterations, demolitions, and most improvements in unincorporated areas. Requirements vary by town.

• Exempt Minor repairs that do not affect structural elements or building systems
• Exempt Interior painting, wallpapering, tiling, or similar finish work
• Exempt Replacement of doors or windows in existing openings
• Exempt Installation of utility appliances that do not require special connections

Note: Exempt work classifications vary by town. Confirm specific exemptions with the applicable town building department before proceeding.

Building code

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

Permit validity

Validity period varies by town; typically 12-18 months with possible extensions.

Owner-builder

Owner-builders must verify town requirements and may need to provide additional documentation.

Contractor requirements

All contractors working in unincorporated Putnam County must hold a valid Putnam County contractor license.

Source: Putnam County Planning and Zoning Departments (Town-Specific Enforcement) ↗

1. 01
   Identify the town in which the property is located (Carmel, Kent, Patterson, Philipstown, Putnam Valley, or Southeast).
2. 02
   Contact the applicable town building department to obtain permit application requirements and forms.
3. 03
   Prepare required documentation including application, plans, survey, contractor information, and supporting approvals.
4. 04
   Submit application to the town building department during office hours.
5. 05
   Pay permit fees as determined by the town fee schedule.
6. 06
   Coordinate electrical permits through the town (if filed locally) or Putnam County Electrical Board (if applicable to the town).
7. 07
   Schedule inspections with the town and obtain certificates of occupancy or compliance upon project completion.

Typical processing time: Varies by town; generally 2-4 weeks for initial review, with additional time for plan corrections or board approvals.

Source: Putnam County Planning and Zoning Departments (Town-Specific Enforcement) ↗

Payment methods vary by town; confirm with the applicable town building department.

• Town building department (varies by town) (phone)
• Town building department office (in-person)

Scheduling deadline

Varies by town; typically 2-3 days advance notice required.

Inspection hours

Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (varies by town)

Time windows

Varies by town

Typical sequence: Typical sequence for residential: footing/foundation, rough framing, insulation, drywall, mechanical/electrical/plumbing, final. Sequence varies by town and project type.

Some jurisdictions may allow remote inspections for certain project types; confirm with the applicable town building department.

Source: Putnam County Planning and Zoning Departments (Town-Specific Enforcement) ↗