Bolthole Index

Cattaraugus County, New York

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Cattaraugus County, New York

69Index Score / 100
#8 of 62 in New York

In Cattaraugus County, New York, building permits for work covered by the statewide Uniform Code come from the town, city or village where the property lies, and zoning approval comes from that same municipality.123 Septic permits are different: the Cattaraugus County Health Department's Environmental Health Division requires a permit before every onsite wastewater installation or repair, whichever municipality the parcel is in.45

At a glance

Building permit
Required for work covered by the Uniform Code; apply through the town, city or village (zoning approval is municipal too; septic permits stay with the county)26
Zoning
Handled by the municipality; rules vary across Cattaraugus County3
Septic permit
Required from Environmental Health before installation or repair4
Private well permit
No county Health Department permit; a new residential well is covered by the building permit7
RV or tiny-home occupancy
No countywide answer confirmed; ask the municipality governing the parcel8
Owner-builder exemption
No general permit exemption confirmed; state contractor licensing is a separate question9
Certificate of occupancy
Required for permitted work and changes in general occupancy classification10

Who to call

Zoning

Cattaraugus County Planning Division

Planning support and County Planning Board referrals; municipal boards decide local zoning applications

(716) 938-2387

207 Rock City St., 2nd Floor, Little Valley, NY 14755

Also useful

Cattaraugus County Directory of Federal, State, County, City, Town & Village Officials

Official directory for finding the applicable town, city or village contact

Septic permits

Cattaraugus County Health Department - Environmental Health Division

Onsite wastewater permits, site investigations and inspections throughout Cattaraugus County

716-373-8050

1 Leo Moss Drive, Suite 4010, Olean, NY 14760-1101

Also useful

Cattaraugus County Health Department - Environmental Health Division

Private-water guidance and well-standard waivers

716-373-8050

1 Leo Moss Drive, Suite 4010, Olean, NY 14760-1101

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Cattaraugus County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Do you need a building permit in Cattaraugus County, NY?

Yes. New York's Uniform Code applies in Cattaraugus County, and work subject to that code requires a building permit, with limited exceptions12. The town, city or village where the property sits generally administers code enforcement and issues the permit62. Start by identifying the municipality, then use the county's directory to locate its officials11. Permit holders must leave covered work accessible until the municipality inspects and accepts it12. A certificate of occupancy or compliance is required for permitted work and for a change in general occupancy classification10. Ask local code enforcement which application, plans, fees and exceptions apply before ordering materials.

Who issues Cattaraugus County building permits, and how do you reach them?

The applicable town, city or village generally issues the building permit for a Cattaraugus County parcel62. The county's online Directory of Federal, State, County, City, Town & Village Officials is the practical starting point for finding the correct municipal contact11. Cattaraugus County's Planning Division supports municipalities with land use, comprehensive planning, zoning, mapping, infrastructure and design guidance13. The Planning Division can be reached at (716) 938-2387 at 207 Rock City St., 2nd Floor, Little Valley, NY 1475513. Bring the parcel's tax-map number and proposed use when you call so the municipality can identify the zoning district, permit path, fees and required submissions.

The municipality does not take over septic: the Environmental Health Division issues septic permits and inspections throughout Cattaraugus County, and the county does not issue the town's building permit in its place.514

Does Cattaraugus County have zoning?

New York gives general zoning authority to cities, towns and villages rather than counties, so a Cattaraugus County parcel's zoning rules come from its municipality158. Local zoning and land-use rules vary across the county's municipalities, and the municipal board with jurisdiction decides the application3. Some qualifying municipal actions also require County Planning Board referral, but the municipal board makes the final decision3. Subdivision review likewise depends on local authorization and procedure, while county Health Department engineering review may apply to water and wastewater plans even though the department does not issue a subdivision permit1617. Confirm the municipality, zoning district, setbacks and lot standards before treating a rural listing as buildable.

How do septic permits work in Cattaraugus County?

Every onsite wastewater installation or repair in Cattaraugus County needs an Environmental Health Division permit before construction4. The owner or contractor submits the application with payment; an inspector investigates the site, evaluates soil and percolation, designs the system under current state standards and issues the construction permit1814. Plan-review fees are $80 for a system under 1,000 gallons per day and $160 for a system at or above that design flow19. After construction, the system must be inspected before backfill, and satisfactory work receives a permit to operate2018. Where public wastewater treatment is available and accessible, a new onsite system is prohibited except for a temporary construction privy, and the department may direct an existing system to connect2122. Only about 0.6% of county soils lack severe limits for a conventional drain field, so make septic feasibility an early purchase contingency23.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Cattaraugus County?

We could not confirm one countywide rule for living in an RV, camping on private land or occupying a tiny home in Cattaraugus County. Ask the town, city or village governing the parcel about those uses and any minimum dwelling size because zoning is municipal815. The county's campground rules do not answer private RV living: they apply when at least five campsites are offered to the public and occupied for at least 60 hours per year, triggering inspection, plan review and a permit to operate24. A tiny home used as a dwelling does not automatically escape the building process; work covered by the Uniform Code requires a permit, and permitted work requires a certificate of occupancy or compliance210. New York does not license home-improvement contractors statewide, but that does not create an exemption from building permits, inspections or local trade licensing9.

Building a home in Cattaraugus County: steps in order

  1. Identify the parcel's town, city or village, because that municipality generally handles building permits and local zoning63.
  2. Find the municipal contact through the county officials directory and confirm the zoning district, allowed use, application, fees and plans required11.
  3. Contact Environmental Health for the septic application and site investigation; the owner or contractor submits the application with payment before the inspector designs and permits the system18.
  4. Plan the water source. The Health Department does not issue a private-well permit, but a new residential source is included in the building permit and local code enforcement checks state standards7.
  5. Submit the building-permit application and keep covered work exposed for required inspections212.
  6. Have the septic system inspected before backfill and obtain the required occupancy or compliance certificate before moving in2010.

What should you check before buying land in Cattaraugus County?

Check municipal zoning, legal access, septic feasibility, water and the building site before closing. About 77.1% of Cattaraugus County is wooded and about 69% is at a slope of 15% or less, but parcel conditions can differ sharply from county averages2526. Only about 0.6% of mapped soils avoid severe drain-field limitations, so obtain an Environmental Health site evaluation early2318. A private-use well needs no Health Department permit, although a new residential source falls within the building permit and must meet state standards enforced locally7. For a proposed subdivision, ask both the municipality about plat approval and Environmental Health about engineering review of water and wastewater plans1617. We could not confirm a countywide driveway or floodplain-development rule; ask the municipality and road owner which approvals apply. The effective property-tax rate is about 2.7%, with a median annual bill of about $2,9462728.

Watch-outs

  • Cattaraugus County zoning answers are parcel-specific: the municipal board with jurisdiction handles the application, and some proposals also require County Planning Board referral3.
  • Do not backfill a new septic system before inspection; satisfactory construction is required for a permit to operate20.
  • A private well does not need a county Health Department permit, but a new residential well remains part of local building-permit review7.
  • Public-campground rules do not establish a right to camp or live in an RV on private land; ask the parcel's municipality about RV, temporary-camping and tiny-home occupancy248.

Sources

  1. Legal Memorandum LG03: NYS Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  2. Legal Memorandum LG03: NYS Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  3. cattco.com, quoted and re-checked
  4. Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  5. Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  6. Cattaraugus County FAQ (2026 county census)
  7. Onsite Water Supplies, quoted and re-checked
  8. Cattaraugus County FAQ (2026 county census)
  9. Consumer Alert: NYS Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection Provides New Yorkers with Tips for Avoiding Home Improvement Scams (New York statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  10. Legal Memorandum LG03: NYS Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  11. Cattaraugus County Directory of Federal, State, County, City, Town & Village Officials (cattco.gov)
  12. Legal Memorandum LG03: NYS Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  13. Cattaraugus County Planning Division (cattco.gov)
  14. Cattaraugus County Health Department - Environmental Health Division (cattco.gov)
  15. documents.dps.ny.gov (New York statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. New York Town Law § 276: Subdivision review; approval of plats; development of filed plats (New York statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  17. Health Department Permits & Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  18. Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  19. Cattaraugus County Health Department Plan Review Fee Determination Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  20. Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  21. cattco.gov, quoted and re-checked
  22. cattco.gov, quoted and re-checked
  23. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  24. Temporary Residences, Campgrounds & Migrant Farmworker Housing, quoted and re-checked
  25. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  26. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  27. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  28. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Cattaraugus County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleCattaraugus CountyAllegany CountyChautauqua CountyErie CountyWyoming CountyLivingston CountyGenesee County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningNoNoYesYesYesNoNo
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Dept. of HealthCounty Health Dept.County Dept. of HealthCounty Health Dept.County Dept. of HealthCounty Health Dept.

County locator

Cattaraugus County in New York

69
County map
Cattaraugus County highlighted among the New York counties · colored by Index score

How Cattaraugus County scores

Seclusion57100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency64100% ev.
Admin Boringness5890% ev.
Durability76100% ev.
Property Autonomy33100% ev.
Carry Cost73100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$169kTypical home
2.7%Property tax
$2,954Land / acre
45.3"Annual rain
0.8% of yrsSevere drought
0.2 / yr (+0.2)Mid-century 100°F days
8.5 daysMid-century dry spell
1.52" (+7.3%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.65×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$904Home insurance / yr
1.8% / yrInsurance growth
0.52%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
37,624People within 30 min
2,030,899People within 2 hr
40,940Radius comparison (15 mi)
57.8People / sq mi
1.7%Federal land
69%Land at 15% slope or less
0.6%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
3,917 acWorkable land screen
77.1%Wooded land
67.6 tonsBiomass / forest ac
45.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Cattaraugus County

Inside a city, town or township here, that government usually sets zoning and may issue its own building permits; the county’s rules above cover land outside them.

Town of Allegany · Village of Allegany · Town of Ashford · Town of Carrollton · Village of Cattaraugus · Town of Coldspring · Town of Conewango · Town of Dayton · Village of Delevan · Town of East Otto · Town of Ellicottville · Village of Ellicottville · Town of Farmersville · Town of Franklinville · Village of Franklinville · Town of Freedom · Town of Great Valley · Town of Hinsdale · Town of Humphrey · Town of Ischua · Town of Leon · Town of Little Valley · Village of Little Valley · Town of Lyndon · Town of Machias · Town of Mansfield · Town of Napoli · Town of New Albion · Olean · Town of Olean · Town of Otto · Town of Perrysburg · Town of Persia · Town of Portville · Village of Portville · Town of Randolph · Town of Red House · Salamanca · Town of Salamanca · Village of South Dayton · Town of South Valley · Town of Yorkshire

Answers from the rulebook for Cattaraugus County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Cattaraugus County rules

  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning across Cattaraugus County municipalities; zoning is administered by local municipalities rather than uniformly by the County.

    • Zoning permits may be required for new uses, construction, or improvements to existing structures.
    • Local requirements may include site plan review, special use permits, and variances.
    • Not every municipality in Cattaraugus County has zoning regulations.
    • The applicable local building inspector should be consulted for the municipality where the project is located.
    “These are also issued by the local municipalities [...] Not every municipality in Cattaraugus County has zoning regulations;”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate of local zoning across Cattaraugus County municipalities; local zoning and land-use controls are administered by the applicable city, town, village, or other municipal board rather than uniformly by the County.
      “The following municipal actions may be subject to County Planning Board review: [...] Adoption or amendment of a zoning ordinance or local law. [...] The municipal board can make its final decision on the application after it receives the County Planning Board's recommendation.”
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local-zoning status across Cattaraugus County municipalities, including unincorporated areas governed by town or village ordinances where applicable.
      “The municipal board that has jurisdiction over the application is responsible for referring it to the County Planning Board.”
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    Self-contained recreational vehicle use at regulated campgrounds in Cattaraugus County.

    • The campground must have five or more campsites available to the public.
    • The campground must be occupied for at least 60 hours per year.
    • The use is seasonal or overnight campground occupancy, not a determination concerning long-term private-land RV residence.
    • The facility requires inspection and a Permit to Operate issued by the County Health Department.
    • The facility is inspected for compliance with Subpart 7-3, 10NYCRR: Campgrounds.

    minimum campsites available to public: >= 5 campsites · minimum annual occupancy: >= 60 hours per year

    “Campsites may be maintained for overnight use by tent and camper guests, a camping cabin, or for use by a self-contained recreational vehicle.”
  • Camping on your landAllowed (with conditions)

    Seasonal or overnight camping at regulated public campgrounds.

    • Five or more campsites available to the public triggers the County Health Department campground regime.
    • The site must be occupied for at least 60 hours per year.
    • Inspection, Permit to Operate, and normally plan review are required.

    minimum public campsites: >= 5 campsites · minimum annual occupancy: >= 60 hours per year

    “A campground is defined as any parcel or tract of land where five or more campsites are available to the public for seasonal or overnight occupancy, provided that it is occupied for at least 60 hours per year and does not meet the definition of migrant farm worker housing, children's camp, or mobile home park.”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater treatment system repairs and installations in Cattaraugus County.

    • A permit issued by the Cattaraugus County Environmental Health Division is required before construction.
    • Commercial systems and other large systems with a design flow of 1000 gallons per day or greater also require a SPDES permit issued by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
    • Commercial systems and other large systems with a design flow of 1000 gallons per day or greater require the services of a licensed Professional Engineer.
    • The county regulates systems in accordance with NYS standards and specifications in effect at the time of construction.

    large-system design flow threshold: >= 1000 gallons per day (Commercial systems and other large wastewater treatment systems.)

    “All onsite wastewater treatment system repairs or installations in Cattaraugus County require a permit issued by the Environmental Health Division prior to construction.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater treatment systems in Cattaraugus County.
      “the Environmental Health Division is responsible for enforcement of state and federal water and sewage disposal regulations”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Repairs and installations of onsite wastewater treatment systems in Cattaraugus County

    • The permit must be issued before construction.
    • The owner or selected contractor must submit the county application with payment.
    • Commercial systems and systems with design flow of 1000 gallons per day or greater also require a NYS DEC SPDES permit and licensed Professional Engineer.
    • The construction permit is valid for one year or as otherwise stated and is non-transferable.

    large-system design flow threshold: >= 1000 gallons per day (Additional SPDES permit and licensed Professional Engineer required.) · construction permit validity: one year (Or as otherwise stated; non-transferable.)

    “All onsite wastewater treatment system repairs or installations in Cattaraugus County require a permit issued by the Environmental Health Division prior to construction.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Repairs and installations of onsite wastewater treatment systems in Cattaraugus County.
      “All onsite wastewater treatment system repairs or installations in Cattaraugus County require a permit issued by the Environmental Health Division prior to construction.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Construction and operation of onsite wastewater treatment systems in Cattaraugus County

    • The inspector performs a site investigation before design and construction.
    • After construction, the inspector must inspect the work before it is covered.
    • A Permit-to-Operate is issued if construction is satisfactory.
    • For real-property transfers, inspections are required subject to listed exceptions, including public water and public sewer, undeveloped property without water or wastewater facilities, foreclosure, partition, operation of law, immediate-family transfers, recent inspection, and recent Permit-to-Operate.
    “The contractor or owner must cause inspection of the onsite wastewater treatment system at completion, prior to backfill, and as may be deemed necessary by the Department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction and completion of onsite wastewater treatment systems in Cattaraugus County.
      “The contractor or owner must cause inspection of the onsite wastewater treatment system at completion, prior to backfill, and as may be deemed necessary by the Department.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Onsite wastewater sanitation where public wastewater treatment is available and accessible

    • No onsite wastewater treatment system may be constructed where public wastewater treatment is available and accessible, except a temporary privy for construction purposes.
    • The Department may require abandonment of an existing onsite system and connection to public wastewater treatment.
    • Where onsite systems are otherwise allowed, construction and operation permits are required.
    “Where in the opinion of the Department, a public wastewater treatment system is available and accessible, no person shall construct on any premises an onsite wastewater treatment system, except a temporary privy for construction purposes.”
  • Well permitNot required

    Private-use wells in Cattaraugus County.

    • New residential water sources are included in the building permit.
    • Local Code Enforcement must ensure compliance with current NYS standards.
    • Well contractors must be registered with NYSDEC and submit well logs after construction.
    • A Health Department waiver is required if the well cannot meet the standards.

    minimum casing height: >= 18 inches above ground

    “However, you do NOT currently need a permit from the health department to install a well for private use. New residential water sources are part of your residence and are included in your building permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Not required — Private-use wells in Cattaraugus County.
      “However, you do NOT currently need a permit from the health department to install a well for private use. New residential water sources are part of your residence and are included in your building permit.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Onsite wastewater systems where a public wastewater treatment system is available and accessible

    • A temporary privy for construction purposes is excepted from the prohibition on constructing an onsite wastewater system.
    • The Department may direct abandonment of an existing onsite system and connection to the public wastewater treatment system.
    “Where in the opinion of the Department, a public wastewater treatment systems is available and accessible, the Department may direct the owner requiring abandonment of existing onsite wastewater treatment system(s) and connection to the public wastewater treatment system.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Realty subdivisions and subdivision-related onsite water and wastewater engineering review in Cattaraugus County.

    • A Cattaraugus County Health Department permit is not required for realty subdivisions.
    • Engineering plans require County Health Department review and approval for compliance with NYS Public Health Law and NYS Environmental Conservation Law.
    • Local municipal subdivision approval may still be required.
    • County Planning Board referral may apply to qualifying municipal actions.
    “review and approval of engineering plans is required to ensure compliance with NYS Public Health Law”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Realty subdivisions in Cattaraugus County, including subdivision engineering plans subject to county Environmental Health review.
      “Although realty subdivisions do not require a permit from the Cattaraugus County Health Department, review and approval of engineering plans is required”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Cattaraugus County Health Department plan-review fees for onsite wastewater, campgrounds, and realty subdivisions.

    • The schedule is marked Rev.3/2024.
    • Payment may be by check or credit card; credit-card payment includes a 2.5% convenience fee.
    • The fee schedule states the realty-subdivision fee is established by New York State.

    onsite sewage treatment system under 1,000 gpd: 80 USD · onsite sewage treatment system 1,000 gpd or greater: 160 USD · campground site plan: 160 USD · realty subdivision: per 25 USD per lot (Fee established by New York State)

    “Less than 1,000 gpd $ 80.00 [...] Greater than 1,000 gpd $ 160.00 [...] Campground (Site Plan) $ 160.00 [...] Realty Subdivision (Per Lot) $ 25.00”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County Health Department onsite wastewater and related environmental-health approvals.

    • Complete the onsite wastewater construction-permit application and submit payment to Environmental Health.
    • The inspector performs a site investigation, designs the system under current NYS standards, and issues a Permit to Construct.
    • After construction, the inspector inspects before covering; if satisfactory, a Permit to Operate is issued.
    • Commercial and other systems with design flow of 1,000 gallons per day or greater additionally require a NYSDEC SPDES permit and licensed professional engineer.

    large-system design flow threshold: >= 1000 gallons per day (SPDES permit and professional engineer additionally required)

    “Once the system is constructed, the inspector will visit the site again to inspect the work before it is covered. If the construction is satisfactory, a "Permit to Operate an Onsite Wastewater Treatment System" will be issued.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — County Environmental Health permitting for onsite wastewater systems.
      “An inspector will perform a site investigation with you and your contractor. This involves evaluating the site for potential environmental and health hazards, as well as evaluating the soil stratum and soil percolation rates.”
    • Partial — County Health Department permit and engineering-review processes.
      “charged with permit issuance and inspection of several types of establishments, facilities and activities”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    New York counties have no zoning authority; zoning is administered by individual towns and villages, not Cattaraugus County.

    Cattaraugus County FAQ ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

New York rules that apply here

  • Building permitRequired

    Work that must conform to the New York State Uniform Code or Energy Code throughout New York State except New York City, where the city has its own construction code; local authorities having jurisdiction administer and enforce the state requirements within their boundaries.

    • A local authority having jurisdiction may expressly exempt one or more listed categories of work from the building-permit requirement.
    • Permitted exemption categories include one-story detached tool or storage sheds, playhouses, or similar structures associated with one- or two-family dwellings or townhouses not exceeding 144 square feet gross floor area; temporary sets and scenery; certain window awnings; partitions or movable cases less than 5 feet 9 inches high; painting, wallpapering, tiling, carpeting, or similar finish work; listed portable equipment or appliances; certain equipment replacements; and repairs that do not affect fire and life safety.
    • A permit exemption does not authorize work violating the Uniform Code or Energy Code.
    • Beginning December 31, 2025, regulated parties submitting building permit applications must comply with the 2025 NYS Uniform Code, subject to the stated transition option before that date.

    maximum gross floor area for listed detached accessory structures: <= 144 square feet (Only for one-story detached structures associated with one- or two-family dwellings or townhouses and used for tool/storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses.) · height threshold for listed partitions or movable cases: < 5 feet 9 inches

    “Each authority having jurisdiction shall include in its code enforcement program provisions requiring building permits to be required for work that must conform to either or both of the Codes.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An owner-occupant who wants to install or complete portions of the installation of a manufactured home in New York, including Cattaraugus County.

    • A certified installer must be on site while the manufactured home is being installed.
    • The person intending to own and occupy the manufactured home may apply for certification as the installer under 19 NYCRR Part 1210.
    • Any required component completed by the homeowner must be supervised and certified by an installer holding certification issued under Part 1210.
    • This source addresses manufactured-home installation, not a general exemption from building permits or all construction-code requirements.
    “A person who intends to own and occupy a manufactured home may apply for certification as the installer of such manufactured home”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Building code adoptedAdopted

    The New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code for construction statewide outside New York City, including residential construction in towns and other local governments.

    • The Uniform Code took effect January 1, 1984.
    • New York City was permitted to retain its own code.
    • Cities, towns, and villages outside New York City do not need to adopt the Uniform Code affirmatively; it is automatically in effect.
    • A local government cannot exclude itself from all or any part of the Uniform Code.
    • Building permits must be required for work that must conform to the Uniform Code, subject to permitted exceptions.

    effective date: 1984-01-01

    “The Uniform Code is applicable in every part of the State (except the City of New York, which was permitted to retain its own code).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Buildings and construction in Cattaraugus County under the New York State Uniform Code.
      “The Uniform Code is automatically in effect in each city, town, and village in the State (except New York City) by directive of the State Legislature.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Construction work for which a building permit has been issued and which is subject to the Uniform Code or Energy Code, administered by the applicable local authority having jurisdiction throughout New York State except New York City.

    • Inspections may be performed in person or remotely when the authority determines the remote inspection can be performed to the same level and quality and provides sufficient information; otherwise an in-person inspection is required.
    • Where applicable, inspections include the worksite before permit issuance, footing and foundation, concrete slab preparation, framing, structural/electrical/plumbing/mechanical/fire-protection systems, fire-resistant construction and penetrations, heating appliances/chimneys/flues/gas vents, Energy Code compliance elements, manufactured buildings or homes, and a final inspection.
    • Permit work must remain accessible and exposed until inspected and accepted; the permit holder must notify the authority when work is ready for inspection.
    • The state minimum standards do not require regular periodic inspections of owner-occupied one- and two-family dwellings or agricultural buildings used directly and solely for agricultural purposes, but this does not limit inspections invited by the owner or required where conditions threaten or present a public-health, safety, or welfare hazard.

    maximum interval for periodic fire-safety and property-maintenance inspections of multiple dwellings and nonresidential occupancies: <= 3 years (This periodic-inspection interval does not apply as a requirement to owner-occupied one- and two-family dwellings or qualifying agricultural buildings.)

    “Each authority having jurisdiction shall include in its code enforcement program provisions requiring the authority having jurisdiction, or an individual or entity contracted by the authority having jurisdiction and satisfying the requirements set forth in section 1203.2 (e)(2), to perform construction inspections required by the Codes including those listed in this paragraph, either in-person or remotely.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction work subject to the Uniform Code in Cattaraugus County.
      “Inspections of certain specified elements of the construction process must be required. Building permits holders must keep work accessible and exposed until inspected and accepted by the municipality.”
    • Required — Construction work subject to the New York State Uniform Code in Cattaraugus County.
      “Inspections of certain specified elements of the construction process must be required. Building permits holders must keep work accessible and exposed until inspected and accepted by the municipality.”
    • Required — Construction work in Cattaraugus County for which a building permit has been issued.
      “building permit holders to notify the authority having jurisdiction when construction work is ready for inspection”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Work subject to a building permit and the Uniform Code or Energy Code, and structures or portions converted from one use or occupancy classification or subclassification to another, throughout New York State except New York City.

    • Permission to use or occupy covered buildings or portions is granted only by issuance of a certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance, except as provided for temporary certificates of occupancy.
    • Before issuance, the authority must inspect and determine compliance with applicable Codes and, where applicable, review structural-observation statements, special-inspection reports, flood-hazard certifications, Energy Code test results, and manufactured-building or manufactured-home seals, insignias, and data plates.
    • A temporary certificate may be issued before completion for a specified period and specified portions, subject to safe occupancy, operational fire and life-safety components, required means of egress, and completion of remaining work.

    temporary certificate period: specified period (The permit holder must undertake to bring the structure into full compliance with the Codes.)

    “The code enforcement program shall provide that, except as provided in section 1203.3 (d)(4), permission to use or occupy a building or structure, or portion thereof, for which a building permit was previously issued, or which has been converted from one use or occupancy classification or subclassification to another, shall be granted only by issuance of a certificate of occupancy or a certificate of compliance.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Work requiring a building permit and changes in general occupancy classification in Cattaraugus County.
      “A certificate of occupancy or a certificate of compliance must be required (1) for all work for which a building permit was required and (2) whenever the general occupancy classification of a building is changed.”
    • Required — Work subject to a building permit and changes in general occupancy classification in Cattaraugus County.
      “A certificate of occupancy or a certificate of compliance must be required (1) for all work for which a building permit was required and (2) whenever the general occupancy classification of a building is changed.”
    • Required — Work in Cattaraugus County subject to a building permit, and changes of use or occupancy classification.
      “all work which is the subject of a building permit;”
  • Zoning districtsPartial

    Publication and adoption of zoning districts by New York municipalities statewide; zoning is locally adopted and administered rather than administered by New York State as a single statewide zoning map.

    • Zoning districts are shown on each municipality’s zoning map.
    • A New York municipality has the choice whether to adopt zoning and, if adopted, how the zoning regulations will work in the community.
    • The source states that all New York cities have adopted zoning, while towns and villages may adopt zoning under the applicable enabling laws and local procedures.
    • District-specific zoning regulations and maps must therefore be obtained from the relevant city, town, or village.
    • The cited publication discusses local adoption procedures and does not publish a single statewide set of zoning districts.
    “Since New York is a home rule state, a municipality has the choice of whether or not to adopt zoning and if it does, how the zoning regulations will work in the community.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Partial — New York cities, towns, and villages that enact local zoning laws and zoning districts
      “New York’s zoning enabling statutes (the state statutes which give cities, towns and villages the power to enact local zoning laws) require that zoning laws be adopted in accordance with a comprehensive plan.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Farm operations located within a New York agricultural district, including associated land, on-farm buildings, equipment, manure processing and handling facilities, and qualifying agricultural practices.

    • The protection applies only to farm operations in an agricultural district.
    • Local governments must exercise their planning and land-use authority consistently with Article 25-AA of the Agriculture and Markets Law.
    • Local governments may not unreasonably restrict or regulate the covered farm operation unless public health or safety is threatened.
    • Only farm operations are protected; the Department evaluates whether the regulated activity encompasses a farm operation.
    • The reasonableness analysis considers whether the restriction is unreasonable on its face and as applied to the particular situation, and depends on the totality of the circumstances.
    • A farmer, municipality, or other eligible requester may seek a Department opinion concerning the effect of a proposed or existing local law or ordinance.
    • If the Department determines that a local law or ordinance is unreasonably restrictive, it may seek remediation and the Commissioner may issue an order to comply or bring an enforcement action.
    “Local governments, when exercising their powers to enact and administer comprehensive plans and local laws, ordinances, rules or regulations, shall exercise these powers in such manner as may realize the policy and goals set forth in this article, and shall not unreasonably restrict or regulate farm operations within agricultural districts in contravention of the purposes of this article unless it can be shown that the public health or safety is threatened.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — Farm operations within New York agricultural districts seeking protection from unreasonable local planning, zoning, land-use, or permitting restrictions.
      “shall not unreasonably restrict or regulate farm operations within agricultural districts in contravention of the purposes of this article unless it can be shown that the public health or safety is threatened.”
    • Available (with conditions) — Agricultural uses and agricultural-use structures within the Adirondack Park Agency jurisdiction, including relevant Freshwater Wetlands Act and Wild, Scenic and Recreational Rivers System Act permitting contexts.
      ““Agricultural uses” and “agricultural use structures” are generally exempted from permitting requirements under New York State’s Adirondack Park Agency Act”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New or modified commercial access to a New York State highway, including changes of use or expansions of existing development on a State highway.

    • A highway work permit from NYSDOT is required.
    • The commercial driveway/access permit review generally consists of initial proposal review, design review, and final submission review.
    • Final submission may require insurance documentation, performance security, permit fees, and additional documentation.
    • A simple commercial driveway project may qualify for a single-stage expedited review if it meets the applicable criteria.
    • The page states that the PERM 33-COM application and checklist is used for commercial highway work permit submissions, including minor or major commercial driveways, minor home business driveways, or subdivision streets.
    “If your commercial property development plans involve new or modified access to a state highway, or involve any change of use or expansion of an existing development on a state highway, you will need a highway work permit from the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT).”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — A residence located on a New York state highway when building or modifying a driveway
      “If your residence is on a State highway, you will need a permit from the NYS Department of Transportation to build or modify a driveway.”
    • Required — Building or modifying a residential driveway where the residence is on a New York State highway.
      “If your residence is on a State highway, you will need a permit from the NYS Department of Transportation to build or modify a driveway.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development in FEMA-mapped Special Flood Hazard Areas in New York State, with local administration by the municipality having jurisdiction.

    • Local communities participating in the National Flood Insurance Program regulate development in Special Flood Hazard Areas.
    • Private development is subject to local floodplain development permits.
    • Development funded and undertaken by the State or Federal government is an exception to the local-permit rule and is regulated by the responsible agency, subject to technical assistance by NYSDEC and FEMA.
    • Each participating community has a designated floodplain administrator, usually the building inspector or code enforcement official.
    • The local laws apply to development undertaken by any county, city, town, village, school district, or public improvement district within the community.
    • The source states that any new structure or structure substantially improved or substantially damaged is subject to floodplain development regulations, with substantial improvement or damage exceeding 50% of the structure’s market value.

    substantial improvement or damage threshold: > 50 percent of structure market value

    “Private development is subject to local floodplain development permits.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Temporary camping at New York State Department of Environmental Conservation campgrounds statewide.

    • All campers must register and obtain a camping permit.
    • Check-in is from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.; campers must register and occupy the campsite by 9:00 p.m. on the first reservation night or the campsite may be re-rented and fees may be forfeited.
    • Campers must vacate by 11:00 a.m. on the final day.
    • Camping permits are limited to 14 nights but may be renewed depending on site availability.
    • From July 1 through Labor Day, only 14 cumulative nights of camping can be obtained at any campground.
    • Campsite occupancy is limited to 6 persons, two tents or one hard-wheeled equipment and one tent, and two vehicles; occupancy varies for Family campsites.
    • Violation of any campground rule is grounds for eviction; an evicted person is not entitled to a refund or to return for one week.

    maximum permit duration: <= 14 nights (May be renewed depending upon availability of sites.) · seasonal cumulative camping limit: <= 14 nights (From July 1 through Labor Day, at any campground.) · campsite occupancy: <= 6 persons (Occupancy varies for Family campsites.)

    “All campers must obtain a camping permit. Campers may check in from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. but must register and occupy their campsite by 9:00 p.m. on the first night of their reservation or the campsite will be subject to re-rental and fees may be forfeited. Campers must vacate their campsite no later than 11:00 a.m. on the final day. Camping permits will not be issued for more than 14 nights but may be renewed depending upon availability of sites. From July 1 through Labor Day only 14 cumulative nights of camping can be obtained at any campground.”
  • county building authorityLimited

    County administration and enforcement of the Uniform Code and Energy Code within a local government, including unincorporated town areas, when the local government has opted out or when the Secretary of State designates the county.

    • Every local government ordinarily administers and enforces the Uniform Code and Energy Code.
    • A local government may opt out by local law enacted before July 1; the opt-out becomes effective January 1 of the following year.
    • After a local-government opt-out, the county administers and enforces the codes within that local government.
    • The county may itself enact a local law opting out; if both local government and county opt out, the Secretary of State administers and enforces the codes.
    • Counties may charge fees to defray administration and enforcement costs.
    • A responsible county must establish a code-enforcement program by local law, ordinance, or other appropriate regulation.

    local-government opt-out deadline: < July 1 · successor enforcement date: January 1 (the January 1 next succeeding the effective date of the local law)

    “The secretary may designate the county in which such local government is located to administer and enforce the uniform code in such local government.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — New York counties' administration and enforcement of the Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, and county adoption of higher or more restrictive construction standards affecting residential construction.
      “In such event the county in which said local government is situated shall administer and enforce such codes within such local government [...] unless the county shall have enacted a local law providing that it will not enforce such codes within that county.”
  • county zoning authorityNone

    New York counties' authority to adopt Euclidean zoning regulations for unincorporated land.

    • New York State law authorizes zoning power for cities, towns, and villages, not counties.
    • Counties retain other land-use-related powers under separate statutes and municipal home rule provisions, but those powers are not general county zoning authority.
    “No enabling legislation had been adopted that delegates zoning power to counties.”

Set by your town or city, not the county

In New York, zoning is adopted by each town or city, so Cattaraugus County has no county-wide answer on these. Find your town or city in the list of places on this page, or call its clerk or zoning administrator.

  • Minimum dwelling size
  • Minimum lot size
  • Setbacks
  • Lot coverage
  • Building height
  • Tiny homes
  • Manufactured homes
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Short-term rentals

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Cattaraugus County, New York

Is Cattaraugus County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Cattaraugus County scores 69/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: 20 operating mines and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop.

Do you need a building permit in Cattaraugus County, New York?

Cattaraugus County generally requires a residential building permit, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Cattaraugus County Health Department, Environmental Health Division (under NY DOH). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Cattaraugus County, New York?

Land in Cattaraugus County runs about $2,954 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Cattaraugus County?

Cattaraugus County gets about 45.3" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 0.8% of years.

How remote is Cattaraugus County?

A representative private-land location has about 37,624 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,030,899 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Cattaraugus compares in New York

Compare side-by-side →See all 62 New York counties ranked →