Building and Inspection Procedures

Building and Zoning Permits:

Required for building projects, including new construction, additions, structural changes, decks, finished basements, pools, drainage, fencing, demolition, roofing, siding, emergency alarm installation, window replacement, portable storage units, generator installations and temporary bulk waste containers. Contractors must have current proof of insurance certificates naming the Town of Niskayuna as a Certificate Holder for General Liability, Workers’ Compensation and NYS Disability insurance coverage or approved CE200 Waiver filed with our office.  Homeowners may perform their own work with an affidavit of insurance exemption (BP-1).

Inspection Times and Procedures:

To schedule a building inspection, please call the Building Department.  Inspections will be made between 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and between 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. daily.

Types of Inspections:

  • Footing Inspection
  • Foundation / Backfill Inspection
  • Rough Electrical Inspection (by third party)
  • Rough Plumbing Inspection
  • Rough Framing Inspection
  • Insulation Inspection
  • Final Electrical Inspection (by third party)
  • Final Plumbing Inspection
  • Final Building Inspection
  • Final Grading Inspection

Plumbing Permits and Inspections:

Plumbing work performed in the Town requires a separate plumbing permit. Plumbing permits are issued by the Building Department.

Electrical Inspections:

Electrical work performed in the Town requires a third party electrical permit. To schedule an electrical inspection, call any of the NYS approved electrical inspectors.

Prior to Excavation on Property:

It is required that before digging, call Dig Safely New York excavation notification center at 1-800-962-7962 to locate utilities. All utilities (gas, electric, phone, cable TV, etc) will be located free of charge.