How much does a building permit cost in Buffalo, NY?

The minimum permit fee is Contact city for current fees. Fees are calculated as: Based on project valuation and type; contact city for details. Plan check fee: Included in permit fee; varies by project type.

How do I apply for a building permit in Buffalo, NY?

1. Determine permit type for your project. 2. Prepare all required documentation and plans. 3. Submit application through online portal with digital plans. 4. Pay application and plan-check fees. 5. Department reviews completeness and routes to relevant review divisions. 6. Respond to any deficiency notices and resubmit revised plans if needed. 7. Obtain permit issuance and pay final fees. 8. Schedule required inspections before starting work.

How do I schedule a building inspection in Buffalo, NY?

Inspections can be scheduled via: Online portal, Contact Department of Permit and Inspection Services. Contact city for scheduling requirements.

City Building Permits

Buffalo, NY - Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in Buffalo, New York. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

New York Erie County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

All properties within the incorporated City of Buffalo.

Department: Department of Permit and Inspection Services
Address: 65 Niagara Square, Room 301, Buffalo, NY 14202
Website: https://www.buffalony.gov/719/Permits

Online Permit Portal

Open Online Permit Portal

Platform: City of Buffalo Online System • Account required: Yes • Submission: Online only

Additional resources:

Application Process

Determine permit type for your project.
Prepare all required documentation and plans.
Submit application through online portal with digital plans.
Pay application and plan-check fees.
Department reviews completeness and routes to relevant review divisions.
Respond to any deficiency notices and resubmit revised plans if needed.
Obtain permit issuance and pay final fees.
Schedule required inspections before starting work.

Typical processing time: Varies by project type and complexity; online portal provides status tracking.

Source: Department of Permit and Inspection Services

General Requirements

Permits required for new buildings, additions, changes of use, remodeling, repairs, decks, sheds, flat work, and demolition.

Required Documents

Completed permit application
Architectural or engineering plans
Site plan
Project scope and description
Proof of property ownership or authorization

Permit validity: Applications must be pursued within applicable timeframe. Contact office for specific expiration rules.
Building code: 2025 NYS Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code; 2025 NYS Energy Conservation Construction Code
Owner-builder: Owner-builder disclosures may be required; contact Department of Permit and Inspection Services for current requirements.
Contractor requirements: All contractors must hold valid New York State licenses and current City of Buffalo business licenses.

Fees

Minimum permit fee: Contact city for current fees
Plan check fee: Included in permit fee; varies by project type
Permit fee formula: Based on project valuation and type; contact city for details
Trade permit fee: Separate fees for mechanical, electrical, plumbing trades
Reinspection fee: Contact city for current reinspection fees
Penalty (no permit): Penalties apply for unpermitted work; contact city for amounts
Payment note: Payment through online portal; methods vary.

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Contact the Department of Permit and Inspection Services to confirm whether your project requires a permit before starting work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

Online portal (online)
Contact Department of Permit and Inspection Services (phone)

Scheduling deadline: Contact city for scheduling requirements
Inspection hours: Standard business hours; contact city for specifics
Time windows: Contact city for inspection window information

Typical inspection sequence: Inspections required at various construction stages; sequence depends on project type.

Remote inspections may be available for certain inspection types at city discretion.

Additional Resources

Building code: 2025 NYS Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code; 2025 NYS Energy Conservation Construction Code
Verify contractor license: New York State License Lookup
License lookup guide: New York Contractor License Requirements
Contract template: New York Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
New York hub: New York Contractor License & Permit Hub

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the Department of Permit and Inspection Services before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Buffalo Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Buffalo, NY?: Permits required for new buildings, additions, changes of use, remodeling, repairs, decks, sheds, flat work, and demolition.
How much does a building permit cost in Buffalo, NY?: The minimum permit fee is Contact city for current fees. Fees are calculated as: Based on project valuation and type; contact city for details. Plan check fee: Included in permit fee; varies by project type.
How do I apply for a building permit in Buffalo, NY?: 1. Determine permit type for your project. 2. Prepare all required documentation and plans. 3. Submit application through online portal with digital plans. 4. Pay application and plan-check fees. 5. Department reviews completeness and routes to relevant review divisions. 6. Respond to any deficiency notices and resubmit revised plans if needed. 7. Obtain permit issuance and pay final fees. 8. Schedule required inspections before starting work.
How long does it take to get a building permit in Buffalo, NY?: Typical processing time is Varies by project type and complexity; online portal provides status tracking..
How do I schedule a building inspection in Buffalo, NY?: Inspections can be scheduled via: Online portal, Contact Department of Permit and Inspection Services. Contact city for scheduling requirements.

Need help with your project?

Navigating permits in Buffalo can be complicated.

Jaspector connects you with local experts who can review your scope, verify your contractor, and help you understand what permits your project actually needs.

Learn how Jaspector works

Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.