Building permits, zoning and land rules in Chemung County, New York
63Index Score / 100 #25 of 62 in New York
Chemung County, New York requires building permits for work under the state Uniform Code, and the city, town or village where the land lies issues them12. Zoning approval comes from the municipality as well, and the county plan names the Town of Van Etten as the only municipality without a zoning code3. Septic permits stay with the county: the Chemung County Health Department issues them for every address45.
At a glance
Building permit
Required for work subject to the Uniform Code; the applicable municipality ordinarily administers it2
Zoning
Set by each municipality; Van Etten is the only one without a zoning code36
Septic permit
County permit, design, inspection, and written approval required, subject to the DEC-permit exception457
Septic owner-builder
Contractor-registration exemption available when the owner personally builds the system and files the form8
Final approval
Certificate of occupancy or compliance required for permitted work9
County-road driveway
DPW highway permit required for work in a county right-of-way10
Building permits, code/zoning enforcement, inspections, and site-plan, subdivision and variance applications for the Town of Chemung only (one of Chemung County's several towns and the City of Elmira, each with its own office)
Septic (individual sewage treatment system) Construction Permits, site evaluations, and inspections countywide, regardless of which town the property is in
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Do you need a building permit in Chemung County, New York?
Yes. The New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code applies automatically in Chemung County's cities, towns, and villages, and work subject to that code requires a building permit unless an exception applies12. The applicable municipality ordinarily administers the permit program2. The Town of Chemung's Code Enforcement Officer, for example, receives and approves permits only for projects inside that town11. Identify the parcel's municipality first, then ask its code office which application, construction documents, exceptions, and fees apply before work starts.
Who issues permits and performs inspections in Chemung County?
The applicable city, town, or village ordinarily runs the Uniform Code permit program within its boundaries12. The Town of Chemung's Code Enforcement Officer is one example: the office issues building permits, performs inspections, and processes site-plan, subdivision, and variance applications for that town11. Reach the town office at 48 Rotary Road Extension, Chemung, New York, by phone at 607-529-3532 or email at code@townofchemung.com11. Permit holders must leave specified work accessible and exposed until the municipality accepts it after inspection12. Permitted work and a change in general occupancy classification require a certificate of occupancy or compliance9.
Does Chemung County have zoning?
Zoning in Chemung County is set by its municipalities: most have their own zoning, the Town of Van Etten is identified as the only municipality without a zoning code, and building permits there still go through the town's codes office3. The county publishes available municipal zoning maps as references, not as one countywide zoning map6. Lot-size differences can be substantial: the Town of Baldwin requires 5 acres for a home, while City of Elmira examples require 15,000 square feet in R-AA and 5,000 square feet in R-A13. In the Town of Catlin's Agricultural Residential district, a one-unit dwelling needs 3 acres and at least 1,200 square feet of habitable area1415. Identify the parcel's municipality and district before relying on a setback, lot size, building height, or dwelling-size rule. The Town of Chemung enforces zoning and processes land-use applications only within that town11. Proposed realty subdivisions also undergo county Health Department review, including plan submission, a site inspection, and local environmental-review documentation16.
How do septic permits work in Chemung County?
Chemung County requires a Health Department construction permit to construct, install, alter, expand, replace, or repair a private sewage treatment system, unless the state Department of Environmental Conservation has issued the permit45. Environmental Health Services is at 103 Washington Street, Elmira, New York, and can be reached at 607-737-2019 or ehs@chemungcountyny.gov17. Inspection and written approval are required before backfill, operation, or use7. A homeowner who personally builds the system may file the Homeowners Registration Exemption Form, but the county permit remains required8. Only 0.4% of surveyed soils lack severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the site evaluation an early purchase contingency18. In a Sewer District service area, a main connection or lateral repair needs a sewer permit19. Elmira Sewer District's published new-connection fees are $200 for 1 to 2 residential units, $350 for 3 to 6, and $500 for more than 6 or nonresidential service20.
Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Chemung County?
We could not confirm one rule allowing or prohibiting long-term RV occupancy, temporary private-land camping, or tiny-home occupancy across Chemung County. Because municipalities set their own zoning districts, allowed uses, and dimensional standards, ask the parcel's code or planning office about occupancy, duration, utilities, setbacks, and minimum dwelling size3. In the Town of Chemung, the town Code Enforcement Officer handles local zoning and land-use applications11. A tiny home built as a structure needs a permit when its work must conform to the Uniform Code2. Off-grid does not mean sanitation-free: premises with plumbing fixtures or a sanitary-flow receptacle and no approved community sewer must use an onsite wastewater system subject to county design, permit, inspection, approval, and maintenance rules21.
Building a home in Chemung County: the steps, in order
Identify the parcel's city, town, or village and confirm its zoning district, allowed use, lot size, and other dimensional standards36.
Determine whether the parcel needs an onsite system or a Sewer District connection permit519.
For onsite sewage, arrange the county Health Department site evaluation and construction permit; a homeowner installing the system personally must file the contractor-registration exemption form228.
Apply to the applicable local government for work subject to the Uniform Code2.
Keep specified building and septic work exposed until required inspections and approvals are complete127.
Obtain the certificate of occupancy or compliance required for permitted building work9.
Obtain a county DPW highway permit before access work enters a county right-of-way2210.
What to check before you buy land in Chemung County
Jurisdiction: identify the municipality and verify its zoning district, allowed use, dimensional standards, and building process36. Septic: require a satisfactory county site evaluation before closing because a construction permit is required, while only 0.4% of surveyed soils lack severe limitations for a conventional drain field518. Subdivision: verify county Health Department approval when the parcel comes from a proposed realty subdivision16. Wells: we could not confirm a countywide private-well permit, so ask Environmental Health Services. Floodplain: private development in a mapped Special Flood Hazard Area is subject to a permit administered by the municipality23. Access: county-right-of-way work needs a DPW highway permit22. Taxes: the effective property tax rate is about 2.5%, and the median annual bill is about $3,3322425.
Watch-outs
The Town of Chemung shares its name with Chemung County, but its code office serves the town rather than the entire county11.
An owner-builder septic exemption covers contractor registration only; the Chemung County permit remains required8.
An onsite wastewater system cannot be covered or used until Chemung County has inspected and approved it in writing7.
A driveway entrance or other work in a Chemung County highway right-of-way requires a DPW highway permit, and private infrastructure may also require an easement or license agreement10.
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.
Chemung County highlighted among the New York counties · colored by Index score
How Chemung County scores
Seclusion41100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency58100% ev.
Admin Boringness61100% ev.
Durability88100% ev.
Property Autonomy33100% ev.
Carry Cost72100% ev.
Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →
$164kTypical home
2.5%Property tax
$3,542Land / acre
37.5"Annual rain
2.1% of yrsSevere drought
1.1 / yr (+1.1)Mid-century 100°F days
10.1 daysMid-century dry spell
1.62" (+6.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.58×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$905Home insurance / yr
1.1% / yrInsurance growth
0.17%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
107,065People within 30 min
2,285,820People within 2 hr
115,733Radius comparison (15 mi)
199.7People / sq mi
0.1%Federal land
69.5%Land at 15% slope or less
0.4%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
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Cities and towns in Chemung 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.
Not yet researched: Town of Ashland · Town of Baldwin · Town of Catlin · Elmira · Town of Elmira · Town of Erin · Town of Horseheads · Village of Horseheads · Village of Millport · Town of Van Etten · Town of Veteran · Village of Wellsburg
Answers from the rulebook for Chemung County
What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.
A homeowner who plans to construct an on-site wastewater treatment system personally.
The homeowner must complete a Homeowners Registration Exemption Form.
The ordinary rule is that the STS construction permit is issued to a registered contractor.
The permit remains subject to Chemung County Health Department requirements.
“If you are planning to construct the OWTS yourself, you can claim an exemption to the "contractor registration" requirement. To do so, you will need to complete a "Homeowners Registration Exemption Form".”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Available (with conditions) — A property owner constructing an onsite wastewater treatment system in Chemung County.
“If you are planning to construct the OWTS yourself, you can claim an exemption to the "contractor registration" requirement. To do so, you will need to complete a "Homeowners Registration Exemption Form".”
Available (with conditions) — A property owner constructing an onsite wastewater treatment system personally.
“If you are planning to construct the OWTS yourself, you can claim an exemption to the "contractor registration" requirement. To do so, you will need to complete a "Homeowners Registration Exemption Form".”
Local zoningVaries (with conditions)
Countywide aggregate of municipal zoning: most Chemung County municipalities have their own zoning areas, while the Town of Van Etten is identified as the only municipality without an established zoning code.
This is an aggregate conclusion about municipal zoning and does not mean Chemung County administers each municipal ordinance.
The source states that building permits in Van Etten must still be reviewed by the town codes office for compliance with state and local building codes.
Municipal zoning ordinances may differ by town, village, or city.
“Most municipalities within Chemung County have established their own agricultural zoning area. Figure 2 shows that most of the land is categorized as 'Agricultural Residential,' followed by 'Agricultural & Rural.' Notably, the Town of Chemung features a specialized zone named 'Conservation Agriculture,' and the Town of Big Flats has a 'Conservation' area, both of which reflect ongoing agricultural activities and a commitment to land conservation. The Town of Van Etten is the only municipality in the county without an established zoning code, though all building permits must be reviewed by the town’s codes office to ensure compliance with state and local building codes.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate of municipal zoning within Chemung County.
“All municipalities in Chemung County have a zoning code in place. [...] each municipality has its own zoning districts with their own allowed uses and dimensional standards.”
Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)
Countywide publication of municipal zoning maps and descriptions for communities in Chemung County.
The publication is an aggregate reference and does not replace the applicable municipality's zoning code.
Each municipality has its own zoning districts, allowed uses, and dimensional standards.
The source identifies zoning maps as current as of July 2024.
“Reference Appendix A for zoning maps for each of the communities within Chemung County (if available). Unlike land use, which can be easily harmonized among municipalities, each municipality has its own zoning districts with their own allowed uses and dimensional standards.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Published — County planning publication of municipal zoning districts and maps in Chemung County.
“Reference Appendix A for zoning maps for each of the communities within Chemung County (if available). Unlike land use, which can be easily harmonized among municipalities, each municipality has its own zoning districts with their own allowed uses and dimensional standards.”
Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)
Minimum lot sizes imposed by municipal zoning districts in Chemung County.
The examples are municipal rules and do not establish one countywide minimum.
The Town of Baldwin example requires five acres for a home.
The City of Elmira examples require 15,000 square feet in R-AA and 5,000 square feet in R-A.
The applicable municipality and zoning district must be identified before relying on a dimensional standard.
Town of Baldwin minimum lot size for a home: 5 acres · City of Elmira R-AA minimum lot size: 15000 square feet · City of Elmira R-A minimum lot size: 5000 square feet
“For example, the Town of Baldwin has a single district called Agricultural Residential. Its intent is to promote and encourage rural low density residential uses compatible with the slope and soil conditions of the Town. The minimum lot size for a home is 5 acres.”
Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)
Private sewage treatment systems serving buildings, dwellings, or premises in Chemung County.
The Chemung County Health Department administers the county construction-permit requirement.
State Department of Environmental Conservation permitting can provide an exception under the Sanitary Code.
“No person shall undertake to construct, install, alter, expand, replace, repair or provide a system or any component of a system or facilities for the private treatment of waterborne sewage, domestic or trade wastes, to serve any building, dwelling, or premises in or from which such wastes may be discharged without first having obtained a “Construction Permit” for a specific parcel therefor from the Director.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
County — Private sewage treatment systems serving buildings, dwellings, or premises in Chemung County.
“No person shall construct a system or facilities for the private treatment of waterborne sewage, domestic, or trade wastes, to serve any building, dwelling, or premises in or from which such wastes may be discharged without first having obtained a "Construction Permit" from the Chemung County Health Department.”
Septic permitRequired
Construction, installation, alteration, expansion, replacement, repair, or provision of an onsite wastewater treatment system for a specific parcel.
A permit is not required when a permit has been issued by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation; a copy or rejection determination must be filed with the Department of Health.
All OWTS must be designed by a licensed design professional.
“Such permit shall not be required when a permit therefor has been issued by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. A copy of such permit from the State or of a determination rejecting such permit shall be filed with the Department of Health.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — Construction of private sewage treatment systems in Chemung County.
“No person shall construct a system or facilities for the private treatment of waterborne sewage, domestic, or trade wastes, to serve any building, dwelling, or premises in or from which such wastes may be discharged without first having obtained a "Construction Permit" from the Chemung County Health Department.”
Septic inspectionRequired
OWTS construction in Chemung County.
Inspection is required before backfill or at stages specified in the permit.
The system may not be covered or placed into operation until inspected and approved.
The owner may not use the system until construction is complete, inspected, and approved in writing.
“The person constructing an OWTS must cause an inspection by the Director of the OWTS prior to backfill, or at various stages of construction as stated in the permit. The OWTS shall not be covered or placed into operation until the construction has been inspected and approved by the Director.”
Off-grid sanitationLimited
Premises with plumbing fixtures or a sanitary-flow receptacle where no approved community sewerage system is available.
The premises must have an OWTS.
The OWTS remains subject to county construction-permit, inspection, approval, design, and maintenance requirements.
“Each premises provided with plumbing fixtures or provided with a receptacle to create a sanitary flow, where no approved community sewerage system is available, shall have an OWTS as described in section 1.”
Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)
Connections to the main sewer line or repairs to an existing sewer lateral in areas served by the Chemung County Sewer Districts.
A Sewer Permit must be obtained before connecting to the main sewer line or repairing an existing lateral.
New sanitary sewers and extensions owned and operated by Chemung County must be designed by a New York-licensed professional engineer.
Plans and specifications must be submitted to and approved by the Sewer Districts before permit issuance.
Permit fees are paid at the Permit Office when the application is submitted.
Design and insurance requirements must be met before permit issuance.
“When connecting to the Main Sewer Line or making a repair to an existing lateral, a Sewer Permit must be obtained from the Chemung County Sewer Districts.”
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Proposed realty subdivisions in Chemung County.
Applicants must review NYSDOH, NYSDEC, County Health Department, and local building, planning, and zoning requirements.
Applicants must file applicable environmental assessment forms with the local SEQR lead agency, usually the Town.
Subdivision plans, GEN-157, plan review fee, and SEQR documentation must be submitted to the County Health Department.
For systems other than individual onsite sewage treatment systems, plans must be submitted to NYSDEC.
The Health Department reviews completeness, conducts a site inspection, receives the plan review fee, and issues an approval certificate and stamped plans.
“Chemung County has established a program to ensure that proper planning is provided at proposed realty subdivisions for water, sewage, and surface drainage, and other related environmental factors, through review and approval/disapproval of realty subdivision plans.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Regulated (with conditions) — Proposed realty subdivisions in Chemung County subject to county health review.
“Chemung County has established a program to ensure that proper planning is provided at proposed realty subdivisions for water, sewage, and surface drainage, and other related environmental factors, through review and approval/disapproval of realty subdivision plans.”
Driveway accessRequired
Driveway entrances connecting to or involving a Chemung County highway right-of-way.
The permit applies to work in the County Right-of-Way.
The county page also identifies sewers, utilities, pipes, signs, and culverts as covered work.
Privately owned infrastructure may require an easement or license agreement before work begins.
“The Chemung County Highway Permit is designed to obtain permission from the Department of Public Works (DPW) for any work in the County Right-of-Way. This includes, but is not limited to, sewers, public and private utilities, pipes, driveway entrances, trailblazing or other private signs, and culverts.”
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
Chemung County Environmental Health Services fees, including county-administered environmental-health permits and approvals.
The county page directs users to the current fee schedule.
A convenience charge applies: minimum $1 per transaction, up to 2.25% of the total transaction amount.
The convenience fee is in addition to fees listed on the fee schedule.
The page states the credit-card acceptance change was effective 9/1/17; this is not treated as the effective date of the current fee schedule.
convenience charge: $1 minimum, up to 2.25% of total transaction amount USD/percent (In addition to listed fees.)
“Click to view / download a copy of the current Fee Schedule. NOTE: Effective 9/1/17, Environmental Health Services has begun accepting most major credit cards as payment for our fees. The minimum convenience charge is $1 per transaction, up to 2.25% of the total transaction amount. The convenience fee will be in addition to the fees listed on the fee schedule.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Published (with conditions) — New public sanitary sewer connections within the Elmira Sewer District.
“$200 per connection [...] $350 per connection [...] $500 per connection - more than 6 residential dwelling units, non-residential”
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
Chemung County highway permits and county environmental-health permits.
Highway permit applications concern work in county rights-of-way.
Privately owned infrastructure may require an easement or license agreement before work begins.
Sewage permit procedures include site evaluation, contractor registration or homeowner exemption, and county approval.
“The Chemung County Highway Permit is designed to obtain permission from the Department of Public Works (DPW) for any work in the County Right-of-Way. This includes, but is not limited to, sewers, public and private utilities, pipes, driveway entrances, trailblazing or other private signs, and culverts.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Partial — Sewer permit process for main-line connections and existing lateral repairs in Chemung County Sewer District service areas.
“A Sewer Permit Application (PDF) can be picked up and filled out at the Permit Office. Permit fees can be paid at the Permit Office at the time the application is turned in. [...] Sewer Permits will not be issued until all design and insurance requirements are met.”
County-wide zoningAbsent
In New York, zoning is administered by municipalities (towns/villages), not the county; Chemung County itself does not adopt zoning, though individual towns enforce local zoning laws.
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.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — Work in Chemung County required to conform to the New York State Uniform Code.
“Building permits must be required for any work which is required to conform to the Uniform Code. Certain exceptions are permitted.”
Required — Work in Chemung County that is required to conform to the New York Uniform Code.
“Building permits must be required for any work which is required to conform to the Uniform Code. Certain exceptions are permitted.”
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).”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Adopted — New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code in Chemung County.
“The code, called the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (the “Uniform Code”), took effect January 1, 1984 and prescribes minimum standards for both fire prevention and building construction. 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).”
Adopted — Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code in Chemung County municipalities.
“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.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — Construction work in Chemung County subject to the Uniform Code.
“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 Uniform Code in Chemung 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.”
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.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — Work in Chemung County for which a building permit was required and changes in general occupancy classification.
“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 Chemung County for which a building permit was required and changes in general occupancy classification.
“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.”
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”
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.”
Inside cities and towns in Chemung County
Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.
Minimum dwelling sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)
One-unit and two-unit dwellings in the Town of Catlin Agricultural Residential (AR) district.
The quoted requirements are from the Town of Catlin Density/Bulk Control Schedule; other Catlin districts and uses have different entries.
The schedule also states that multi-unit dwelling minimum habitable areas vary by bedroom count.
minimum habitable dwelling area per unit: >= 1200 sq. ft. (One-unit and two-unit dwellings in AR; no overall exterior dimension less than 20 feet.) · minimum habitable dwelling area per unit: 350/430/510/590 plus 80 per additional bedroom sq. ft. (Multi-unit dwellings in AR: efficiency 350; 1 bedroom 430; 2 bedrooms 510; 3 bedrooms 590; additional bedroom 80.)
“MINIMUM HABITABLE DWELLING AREA PER UNIT (sq. ft.) [...] ONE UNIT DWELLING 3 Acres 250 75 50 75 10 35 2 1,200 with no overall exterior dimension less than 20'* TWO-UNIT DWELLING 4.5 Acres 400 75 75 75 10 35 2 1,200 with no overall exterior dimension less than 20'* MULTI-UNIT DWELLING 6 Acres 2 Acres/DU 400 75 100 75 10 35 2 EFF. 350 1 BDRM 430 2 BDRM 510 3 BDRM 590 ADDT’ BDRM @ 80”
Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)
Minimum lot areas for one-unit and two-unit dwellings in the Town of Catlin AR district.
The quoted requirements are district-specific and do not establish a countywide minimum lot size.
Other Catlin districts and uses have separate standards.
minimum lot area: >= 3 acres (AR one-unit dwelling.) · minimum lot area: >= 4.5 acres (AR two-unit dwelling.)
“MINIMUM LOT AREA PER PRINCIPAL USE [...] AR ONE UNIT DWELLING 3 Acres 250 75 50 75 10 35 2 1,200 with no overall exterior dimension less than 20'* TWO-UNIT DWELLING 4.5 Acres 400 75 75 75 10 35 2 1,200 with no overall exterior dimension less than 20'*”
SetbacksSpecified
Residential uses and accessory structures on qualifying existing non-conforming lots in the Town of Catlin, Chemung County, New York.
The lot must have been held in single and separate ownership and use from adjoining lots before adoption of the law.
The lot must not adjoin another lot or lots held by the same owner where the aggregate adjoining area equals or exceeds the minimum lot area required in Section 5.1.
A septic permit must be issued by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, NYS Department of Health, Chemung County Health Department, or Chemung County Sewer District, and a copy must be provided to the Town before construction begins.
The residential use must be one listed in Section 4.4.
The lot must have at least 6,000 square feet and a minimum width of 50 feet at the required setback line.
Accessory structures must also comply with the stated three-foot rear or side lot-line minimum, rear-line placement requirement, and Section 10.6.
side yard setback: 6 feet (For the qualifying residential non-conforming lots described in Section 11.4.) · rear yard setback: 15 feet (For the qualifying residential non-conforming lots described in Section 11.4.) · front yard setback: 20 feet (For the qualifying residential non-conforming lots described in Section 11.4.) · accessory structure rear or side lot-line setback: >= 3 feet (Accessory structures must also be behind the rear line of a residential building and comply with Section 10.6.)
“SIDE YARD: 6 feet [...] REAR YARD: 15 feet [...] FRONT YARD: 20 feet [...] A minimum of three (3) feet from any REAR or SIDE LOT LINE,”
Building in a floodplainRequired
Construction and other development in areas of special flood hazard within the Town of Horseheads, Chemung County, as shown on the applicable Flood Insurance Rate Map.
A valid floodplain development permit is required before undertaking development in an area of special flood hazard.
The Code Enforcement Officer is the local administrator who grants or denies permits.
Applications may require duplicate, scaled plans showing the nature, location, dimensions, and elevations of the area; existing or proposed structures; fill; storage of materials; drainage facilities; and their locations.
Applications carry a $25 fee, and the applicant must reimburse additional review, inspection, and approval costs; the local administrator may require a deposit of no more than $500.
application fee: 25 USD · additional-cost deposit: <= 500 USD (The local administrator may require a deposit to cover additional review, inspection, and approval costs.)
“It shall be unlawful to undertake any development in an area of special flood hazard, as shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Map enumerated in § 111-6, without a valid floodplain development permit.”
Set by your town or city, not the county
In New York, zoning is adopted by each town or city, so Chemung 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.
Lot coverage
Building height
Living in an RV
Camping on your land
Tiny homes
Manufactured homes
Accessory dwellings
Short-term rentals
Still unanswered
We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.
Well permit — Private well construction in Chemung County.
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 Chemung County, New York
Is Chemung County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?
Chemung County scores 63/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: a durable current and mid-century hazard profile and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop and about 107,065 people within a 30-minute drive.
Do you need a building permit in Chemung County, New York?
Chemung County generally requires a residential building permit, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Chemung County Health Department, Environmental Health Services. 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 Chemung County, New York?
Land in Chemung County runs about $3,542 per acre, based on the latest county data.
What is the water situation in Chemung County?
Chemung County gets about 37.5" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 2.1% of years.
How remote is Chemung County?
A representative private-land location has about 107,065 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,285,820 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.
