Pelham Manor’s codes insure the safety of our residents and maintain the character and quality of life in our beautiful village. Our codes have been carefully drafted and brought up to date to reflect issues such as excessive lot coverage, “McMansions”, “teardowns” and home offices. Our codes are strict but reasonsable and the Building Department enforces them diligently.
We strongly encourage homeowners and their contractors to contact us in advance to discuss their project. We work closely with our residents, their contractors and architects to help them achieve their goals and comply with applicable codes. Another important reason to seek advice before starting a project is that any work started without a required permit triggers a fine equal to two times the permit fee in addition to the required permit fee. Prior consultation also helps homeowners avoid having to remove non-compliant improvements.
As a general principle any modification or alteration of a property requires a building permit. The sole exception is a “repair”, which is narrowly defined. If your project requires more than a minor effort, it probably requires a permit.
Examples of work which requires a building permit:
Window replacement
Exterior siding replacement
Interior wall replacement
Replacing plumbing fixtures, kitchen cabinets or countertops
Installing a fence, shed or deck
Examples of repairs which do not require a building permit:
Fixing a broken window
Fixing broken exterior siding and stucco
Fixing interior cracked plaster or broken wallboard
Fixing leaking plumbing
Along with building regulations, there are many zoning rules which govern minimum lot sizes and dimensions, building setbacks and minimum yard requirements. The zoning also regulates property usage, swimming pools, driveways and accessory structures such as detached garages and garden sheds.
NOTICES AND REGULATIONS
Yard Signs Regulations
Tag and yard sale signs of all kinds are not permitted. This prohibition includes signs attached to utility poles and placed on or in vehicles. Lawn signs are also prohibited.
Canine Regulations
We love our canine residents but there are some requirements. Dogs must be on a leash not longer than six (6) feet long when off the owner’s property. Owners are also required to clean up after their dog. In addition to being a public nuisance, canine waste carried to Long Island Sound in the storm water drainage system is a major cause of pollution. Dogs are required to be licensed by the Village and to have evidence of required shots.
House Numbers Required
Every residence or place of business is required to be numbered and to have its number attached to the front of the building. Building numbering saves police, fire and ambulance personnel valuable time in responding to an emergency.
Storm Drains
Storm drains are intended for storm water only. Because these drains lead directly into Long Island Sound, residents should never pour waste oil or other contaminants into the storm drains.
Bldg and Zoning Q & A
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