[HISTORY: Adopted by the Town Board of the
Town of Schodack 2-9-2023 by L.L. No. 1-2023.[1]. Amendments noted where applicable.]
[1]
Editor's Note: This local law also repealed former Ch. 90,
Building Code Administration, adopted 12-14-2006 by L.L. No. 8-2006.
This chapter provides for the administration and enforcement
of the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (the
Uniform Code) and the State Energy Conservation Construction Code
(the Energy Code) in this Town. This chapter is adopted pursuant to
§ 10 of the Municipal Home Rule Law. Except as otherwise
provided in the Uniform Code, other state law, or other section of
this chapter, all buildings, structures, and premises, regardless
of use or occupancy, are subject to the provisions of this chapter.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the
meanings indicated:
An area in any building, or in any portion of a building,
that is primarily used or intended to be used for gathering 50 or
more persons for uses including, but not limited to, amusement, athletic,
entertainment, social, or other recreational functions; patriotic,
political, civic, educational, or religious functions; food or drink
consumption; awaiting transportation; or similar purposes.
A building permit, construction permit, demolition permit, or other permit that authorizes the performance of work, including a permit issued pursuant to § 90-4 of this chapter. The term "building permit" shall also include a building permit which is renewed, amended or extended pursuant to any provision of this chapter.
A document issued stating that work was done in compliance with approved construction documents and the codes, including a certificate issued pursuant to § 90-7B of this chapter.
A document issued by the authority having jurisdiction certifying that the building or structure, or portion thereof, complies with the approved construction documents that have been submitted to, and approved by, the authority having jurisdiction and indicating that the building or structure, or portion thereof, is in a condition suitable for occupancy, including a certificate issued pursuant to § 90-7B of this chapter.
The Code Enforcement Officer appointed pursuant to § 90-3B of this chapter.
The Code Enforcement Officer and all inspectors.
The New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code
and the New York State Energy Conservation Construction Code.
An order issued by the Code Enforcement Officer pursuant to § 90-17A of this chapter.
The New York State Energy Conservation Construction Code,
Subchapter B of Chapter XXXIII of Title 19 NYCRR, adopted pursuant
to Article 11 of the Energy Law.
The 2020 Fire Code of New York State as currently incorporated
by reference in 19 NYCRR Part 1225.
An inspection performed to determine compliance with the
applicable provisions of 19 NYCRR Part 1225 and the publications incorporated
therein by reference and the applicable provisions of 19 NYCRR Part
1226 and the publications incorporated therein by reference.
A solid, liquid, or gas associated with semiconductor manufacturing
that has a degree-of-hazard rating in health, flammability, or instability
of Class 3 or 4, as ranked by NFPA 704 (Standard Systems for Identification
of the Hazards of Materials for Emergency Response), and which is
used directly in research, laboratory, or production processes which
have, as their end product, materials that are not hazardous.
An inspector appointed pursuant to § 90-3D of this chapter.
Vehicles that contain cooking equipment that produces smoke
or grease-laden vapors for the purpose of preparing and serving food
to the public. Vehicles intended for private recreation shall not
be considered mobile food preparation vehicles.
A permit issued pursuant to § 90-10 of this chapter. The term "operating permit" shall also include an operating permit which is renewed, amended or extended pursuant to any provision of this chapter.
The person to whom a building permit has been issued.
An individual, corporation, limited-liability company, partnership,
limited partnership, business trust, estate, trust, association, or
any other legal or commercial entity of any kind or description.
The 2020 Property Maintenance Code of New York State as currently
incorporated by reference in 19 NYCRR Part 1226.
The 2020 Residential Code of New York State as currently
incorporated by reference in 19 NYCRR Part 1220.
The reconstruction, replacement, or renewal of any part of
an existing building for the purpose of its maintenance or to correct
damage.
An order issued pursuant to § 90-6 of this chapter.
A building used, in whole or in part, for the collection,
storage, or processing of maple sap into maple syrup and/or maple
sugar.
A certificate issued pursuant to § 90-7D of this chapter.
The Town of Schodack.
The New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code,
as currently in effect and as hereafter amended from time to time.
A.
The office of Code Enforcement Officer is hereby created. The Code
Enforcement Officer shall administer and enforce all the provisions
of the Uniform Code, the Energy Code and this chapter. The Code Enforcement
Officer shall have the following powers and duties:
(1)
To receive, review, and approve or disapprove applications for building
permits, certificates of occupancy/certificates of compliance, temporary
certificates and operating permits, and the plans, specifications
and construction documents submitted with such applications;
(2)
Upon approval of such applications, to issue building permits, certificates
of occupancy/certificates of compliance, temporary certificates and
operating permits, and to include in building permits, certificates
of occupancy/certificates of compliance, temporary certificates and
operating permits such terms and conditions as the Code Enforcement
Officer may determine to be appropriate;
(3)
To conduct construction inspections, inspections to be made prior
to the issuance of certificates of occupancy/certificates of compliance,
temporary certificates and operating permits, fire safety and property
maintenance inspections, inspections incidental to the investigation
of complaints, and all other inspections required or permitted under
any provision of this chapter;
(4)
To issue stop-work orders;
(5)
To review and investigate complaints;
(7)
To maintain records;
(8)
To collect fees as set by the Town Board of this Town;
(9)
To pursue administrative enforcement actions and proceedings;
(10)
In consultation with this Town's attorney, to pursue such legal
actions and proceedings as may be necessary to enforce the Uniform
Code, the Energy Code and this chapter, or to abate or correct conditions
not in compliance with the Uniform Code, the Energy Code or this chapter;
and
(11)
To exercise all other powers and fulfill all other duties conferred
upon the Code Enforcement Officer by this chapter.
B.
The Code Enforcement Officer shall be appointed by the Town Board
of this Town. The Code Enforcement Officer shall possess background
experience related to building construction or fire prevention and
shall, within the time prescribed by law, obtain such basic training,
in-service training, advanced in-service training and other training
as the State of New York shall require for code enforcement personnel,
and the Code Enforcement Officer shall obtain certification from the
State Fire Administrator pursuant to the Executive Law and the regulations
promulgated thereunder.
C.
In the event that the Code Enforcement Officer is unable to serve
as such for any reason, an individual shall be appointed by the Town
Board of this Town to serve as Acting Code Enforcement Officer. The
Acting Code Enforcement Officer shall, during the term of his or her
appointment, exercise all powers and fulfill all duties conferred
upon the Code Enforcement Officer by this chapter.
D.
One or more inspectors may be appointed by the Town Board of this
Town to act under the supervision and direction of the Code Enforcement
Officer and to assist the Code Enforcement Officer in the exercise
of the powers and fulfillment of the duties conferred upon the Code
Enforcement Officer by this chapter. Each inspector shall, within
the time prescribed by law, obtain such basic training, in-service
training, advanced in-service training and other training as the State
of New York shall require for code enforcement personnel, and each
inspector shall obtain certification from the State Fire Administrator
pursuant to the Executive Law and the regulations promulgated thereunder.
E.
The compensation for the Code Enforcement Officer and inspectors
shall be fixed from time to time by the Town Board of this Town.
A.
Building permits required. Except as otherwise provided in Subsection B of this section, a building permit shall be required for any work which must conform to the Uniform Code and/or the Energy Code, including, but not limited to, the construction, enlargement, alteration, improvement, removal, relocation or demolition of any building or structure, or any portion thereof, and the installation of a solid-fuel-burning heating appliance, chimney or flue in any dwelling unit. No person shall commence any work for which a building permit is required without first having obtained a building permit from the Code Enforcement Officer.
B.
Exemptions. No building permit shall be required for work in any
of the following categories:
(1)
Construction or installation of one-story detached structures associated with one- or two-family dwellings or multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) which are used for tool and storage sheds, playhouses or similar uses, provided the gross floor area does not exceed 144 square feet (13.38 square meters), except as otherwise provided in Chapter 219 of the Code of the Town of Schodack;
(2)
Installation of swings and other playground equipment associated
with a one-or two-family dwelling or multiple single-family dwellings
(townhouses);
(3)
Installation of swimming pools associated with a one- or two-family
dwelling or multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) where such
pools are designed for a water depth of less than 24 inches and are
installed entirely above ground;
(4)
Installation of fences which are not part of an enclosure surrounding a swimming pool, except as otherwise provided in Chapter 219 of the Code of the Town of Schodack;
(5)
Construction of retaining walls, unless such walls support a surcharge or impound Class I, II or IIIA liquids, except as otherwise provided in Chapter 219 of the Code of the Town of Schodack;
(6)
Construction of temporary motion picture, television and theater
stage sets and scenery;
(7)
Installation of window awnings supported by an exterior wall of a
one- or two-family dwelling or multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses);
(8)
Installation of partitions or movable cases less than five feet nine
inches in height;
(9)
Painting, wallpapering, tiling, carpeting, or other similar finish
work;
(10)
Installation of listed portable electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation
or cooling equipment or appliances;
(11)
Replacement of any equipment, provided the replacement does not alter
the equipment's listing or render it inconsistent with the equipment's
original specifications; or
(12)
Repairs, provided that the work does not have an impact on fire and
life safety, such as any part of the structural system, the required
means of egress, or the fire protection system or the removal from
service of any part of the fire protection system for any period of
time.
C.
Exemption not deemed authorization to perform noncompliant work. The exemption from the requirement to obtain a building permit for work in any category set forth in Subsection B of this section shall not be deemed an authorization for work to be performed in violation of the Uniform Code or the Energy Code.
D.
Applications for building permits. Applications for a building permit
shall be made, in writing, on a form provided by or otherwise acceptable
to the Code Enforcement Officer. The application shall be signed by
the owner of the property where the work is to be performed or by
an authorized agent of the owner. The application shall include such
information as the Code Enforcement Officer deems sufficient to permit
a determination by the Code Enforcement Officer that the intended
work complies with all applicable requirements of the Uniform Code
and the Energy Code. The application shall include or be accompanied
by the following information and documentation:
(1)
A description of the location, nature, extent, and scope of the proposed
work;
(2)
The Tax Map number and the street address of any affected building
or structure;
(3)
The occupancy classification of any affected building or structure;
(4)
Where applicable, a statement of special inspections prepared in
accordance with the provisions of the Uniform Code; and
(5)
At least two sets of construction documents (drawings and/or specifications)
which:
(a)
Define the scope of the proposed work;
(b)
Are prepared by a New York State registered architect or licensed;
professional engineer where so required by the Education Law;
(c)
Indicate with sufficient clarity and detail the nature and extent
of the work proposed;
(d)
Substantiate that the proposed work will comply with the Uniform
Code and the Energy Code; and
(e)
Where applicable, include a site plan that shows any existing
and proposed buildings and structures on the site, the location of
any existing or proposed well or septic system, the location of the
intended work, and the distances between the buildings and structures
and the lot lines.
E.
Construction documents.
(1)
Construction documents submitted as part of an application for a
building permit shall be drawn to scale on suitable material or in
electronic media. Construction documents will not be approved unless
they show in sufficient detail that they contain the information and/or
documentation required by the applicable provisions of either or both
of the codes, including but not limited to the following, where applicable:
(a)
Describing the location, nature, extent, and scope of the proposed
work;
(b)
Showing that the proposed work will conform to the applicable
provisions of the codes;
(c)
Showing the location, construction, size, and character of all
portions of the means of egress;
(d)
Showing a representation of the building thermal envelope;
(e)
Showing structural information, including but not limited to
braced wall designs; the size, section, and relative locations of
structural members; design loads; and other pertinent structural information;
(f)
Showing the proposed structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical,
fire protection, and other service systems of the building;
(g)
A written statement indicating compliance with the Energy Code;
(h)
A site plan, drawn to scale and drawn in accordance with an
accurate boundary survey, showing the size and location of new construction
and existing structures and appurtenances on the site; distances from
lot lines; the established street grades and the proposed finished
grades; and, as applicable, flood hazard areas, floodways, and design
flood elevations;
(i)
Evidence that the documents were prepared by a licensed and
registered architect in accordance with Article 147 of the New York
State Education Law or a licensed and registered professional engineer
in accordance with Article 145 of the New York State Education Law
and practice guidelines, including but not limited to the design professional's
seal which clearly and legibly shows both the design professional's
name and license number and is signed by the design professional whose
name appears on the seal in such a manner that neither the name nor
the number is obscured in any way, the design professional's
registration expiration date, the design professional's firm
name (if not a sole practitioner), and, if the documents are submitted
by a professional engineering firm and not a sole practitioner professional
engineer, the firm's certificate of authorization number.
(2)
Construction documents will not be accepted as part of an application for a building permit unless they satisfy the requirements set forth in Subsections D(5) and E(1) of this section. Construction documents which are accepted as part of the application for a building permit shall be marked as accepted by the Code Enforcement Officer in writing or by stamp. One set of the accepted construction documents shall be retained by the Code Enforcement Officer, and one set of the accepted construction documents shall be returned to the applicant to be kept at the work site so as to be available for use by the code enforcement personnel. However, the return of a set of accepted construction documents to the applicant shall not be construed as authorization to commence work nor as an indication that a building permit will be issued. Work shall not be commenced until and unless a building permit is issued.
F.
Issuance of building permits. An application for a building permit
shall be examined to ascertain whether the proposed work is in compliance
with the applicable requirements of the Uniform Code and Energy Code.
The Code Enforcement Officer shall issue a building permit if the
proposed work is in compliance with the applicable requirements of
the Uniform Code and Energy Code.
G.
Building permits to be displayed. Building permits shall be visibly
displayed at the work site and shall remain visible until the authorized
work has been completed.
H.
Work to be performed in accordance with construction documents. All
work shall be performed in accordance with the construction documents
which were submitted with and accepted as part of the application
for the building permit. The building permit shall contain a statement
indicating that all work shall be performed in accordance with the
approved building permit application, including any supporting information
and documentation, such as construction documents, written statements,
submittal documents, etc., and that the building permit holder must
notify the Code Enforcement Officer immediately in the event of changes
occurring during construction. If the Code Enforcement Officer determines
that such change warrants a new or amended building permit, such change
shall not be made until and unless a new or amended building permit
reflecting such change is issued.
I.
Time limits. Building permits shall become invalid unless the authorized
work is commenced within six months following the date of issuance.
Building permits shall expire 12 months after the date of issuance.
A building permit which has become invalid or which has expired pursuant
to this subsection may be renewed upon application by the permit holder,
payment of the applicable fee, and approval of the application by
the Code Enforcement Officer.
J.
Revocation or suspension of building permits. If the Code Enforcement
Officer determines that a building permit was issued in error because
of incorrect, inaccurate or incomplete information, or that the work
for which a building permit was issued violates the Uniform Code or
the Energy Code, the Code Enforcement Officer shall revoke the building
permit or suspend the building permit until such time as the permit
holder demonstrates that all work then completed is in compliance
with all applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and the Energy
Code and all work then proposed to be performed shall be in compliance
with all applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and the Energy
Code.
A.
Work to remain accessible and exposed. Work shall remain accessible and exposed until inspected and accepted by the Code Enforcement Officer or by an inspector authorized by the Code Enforcement Officer. The permit holder shall notify the Code Enforcement Officer when any element of work described in Subsection B of this section is ready for inspection.
B.
Elements of work to be inspected. The following elements of the construction
process shall be inspected, where applicable:
(1)
Work site prior to the issuance of a building permit;
(2)
Footing and foundation;
(3)
Preparation for concrete slab;
(4)
Framing;
(5)
Building systems, including underground and rough-in;
(6)
Structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, fire protection, and
other similar service systems of the building;
(7)
Fire-resistant construction;
(8)
Fire-resistant penetrations;
(9)
Solid-fuel-burning heating appliances, chimneys, flues or gas vents;
(10)
Inspections required to demonstrate Energy Code compliance, including
but not limited to insulation, fenestration, air leakage, system controls,
mechanical equipment size, and, where required, minimum fan efficiencies,
programmable thermostats, energy recovery, whole-house ventilation,
plumbing heat traps, high-performance lighting, and controls;
(11)
A final inspection after all work authorized by the building permit
has been completed.
C.
Inspection results. After inspection, the work or a portion thereof
shall be noted as satisfactory as completed, or the permit holder
shall be notified as to where the work fails to comply with either
or both codes, including a citation to the specific code provision
or provisions that have not been met. Work not in compliance with
any applicable provision of the Uniform Code or Energy Code shall
remain exposed until such work shall have been brought into compliance
with all applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and the Energy
Code, reinspected, and found satisfactory as completed.
A.
Authority to issue. The Code Enforcement Officer is authorized to
issue stop-work orders pursuant to this section. The Code Enforcement
Officer shall issue a stop-work order to halt:
(1)
Any work that is determined by the Code Enforcement Officer to be
contrary to any applicable provision of the Uniform Code or Energy
Code, without regard to whether such work is or is not work for which
a building permit is required, and without regard to whether a building
permit has or has not been issued for such work; or
(2)
Any work that is being conducted in a dangerous or unsafe manner
in the opinion of the Code Enforcement Officer, without regard to
whether such work is or is not work for which a building permit is
required, and without regard to whether a building permit has or has
not been issued for such work; or
(3)
Any work for which a building permit is required which is being performed
without the required building permit or under a building permit that
has become invalid, has expired, or has been suspended or revoked.
B.
Content of stop-work orders. Stop-work orders shall be in writing,
be dated and signed by the Code Enforcement Officer, state the reason
or reasons for issuance, and, if applicable, state the conditions
which must be satisfied before work will be permitted to resume.
C.
Service of stop-work orders. The Code Enforcement Officer shall cause
the stop- work order, or a copy thereof, to be served on the owner
of the affected property (and, if the owner is not the permit holder,
on the permit holder) personally or by certified mail, return receipt
requested. The Code Enforcement Officer shall be permitted, but not
required, to cause the stop-work order, or a copy thereof, to be served
on any builder, architect, tenant, contractor, subcontractor, construction
superintendent, or their agents, or any other person taking part or
assisting in work affected by the stop-work order personally or by
certified mail, return receipt requested; provided, however, that
failure to serve any person mentioned in this sentence shall not affect
the efficacy of the stop-work order.
D.
Effect of stop-work order. Upon the issuance of a stop-work order,
the owner of the affected property, the permit holder and any other
person performing, taking part in or assisting in the work shall immediately
cease all work which is the subject of the stop-work order.
E.
Remedy not exclusive. The issuance of a stop-work order shall not be the exclusive remedy available to address any event described in Subsection A of this section, and the authority to issue a stop-work order shall be in addition to, and not in substitution for or limitation of, the right and authority to pursue any other remedy or impose any other penalty under § 90-17, Compliance orders; appearance tickets; civil penalties; injunctive relief, of this chapter or under any other applicable local law or state law. Any such other remedy or penalty may be pursued at any time, whether prior to, at the time of, or after the issuance of a stop-work order.
A.
Certificates of occupancy/certificates of compliance required. A
certificate of occupancy/certificate of compliance shall be required
for any work which is the subject of a building permit and for all
structures, buildings, or portions thereof which are converted from
one use or occupancy classification or subclassification to another.
Permission to use or occupy a building or structure, or portion thereof,
for which a building permit was previously issued shall be granted
only by issuance of a certificate of occupancy/certificate of compliance.
B.
Issuance of certificates of occupancy/certificates of compliance.
(1)
The Code Enforcement Officer shall only issue a certificate of occupancy/certificate
of compliance if he or she shall have:
(a)
Inspected the building, structure, or work and determined that
the building, structure, or work is in compliance with all applicable
provisions of the codes;
(b)
Where applicable, received and reviewed each written statement
of structural observations and/or a final report of special inspections
required by any applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and determined
that the information in such written statement or report adequately
demonstrates compliance with the applicable provision of the Uniform
Code;
(c)
Where applicable, received and reviewed flood hazard certifications
required by any applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and determined
that the information in such certifications adequately demonstrates
compliance with the applicable provision of the Uniform Code;
(d)
Where applicable, received and reviewed each written statement
of the results of tests performed to show compliance with the Energy
Code and determined that the information in such statements adequately
demonstrates compliance with the applicable provision of the Energy
Code; and
(e)
Where applicable, verified the affixation of the appropriate
seals, insignias, and manufacturers' data plates as required
for factory manufactured buildings and/or manufactured homes.
(2)
In addition, where applicable, the following documents, prepared
in accordance with the provisions of the Uniform Code by such person
or persons as may be designated by or otherwise acceptable to the
Code Enforcement Officer, at the expense of the applicant for the
certificate of occupancy/certificate of compliance, shall be provided
to the Code Enforcement Officer prior to the issuance of the certificate
of occupancy/certificate of compliance:
C.
Contents of certificates of occupancy/certificates of compliance.
A certificate of occupancy/certificate of compliance shall contain
the following information:
(1)
The building permit number, if any;
(2)
The date of issuance of the building permit, if any;
(3)
The name, address and Tax Map number of the property;
(4)
If the certificate of occupancy/certificate of compliance is not
applicable to an entire structure, a description of that portion of
the structure for which the certificate of occupancy/certificate of
compliance is issued;
(5)
The use and occupancy classification of the structure;
(6)
The type of construction of the structure;
(7)
The assembly occupant load of the structure, if any;
(8)
If an automatic sprinkler system is provided, a notation as to whether
the sprinkler system is required;
(9)
Any special conditions imposed in connection with the issuance of
the building permit; and
(10)
The signature of the Code Enforcement Officer issuing the certificate
of occupancy/certificate of compliance and the date of issuance.
D.
Temporary certificate. The Code Enforcement Officer shall be permitted
to issue a temporary certificate allowing the temporary occupancy
of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, prior to completion
of the work which is the subject of a building permit. However, in
no event shall the Code Enforcement Officer issue a temporary certificate
unless the Code Enforcement Officer determines that the building or
structure, or the portion thereof covered by the temporary certificate,
may be occupied safely, that any fire- and smoke-detecting or fire
protection equipment which has been installed is operational, and
that all required means of egress from the building or structure have
been provided. The Code Enforcement Officer may include in a temporary
certificate such terms and conditions as he or she deems necessary
or appropriate to ensure safety or to further the purposes and intent
of the Uniform Code. A temporary certificate shall be effective for
a period of time, not to exceed six months, which shall be determined
by the Code Enforcement Officer and specified in the temporary certificate.
During the specified period of effectiveness of the temporary certificate,
the permit holder shall undertake to bring the building or structure
into full compliance with all applicable provisions of the Uniform
Code and the Energy Code.
E.
Revocation or suspension of certificates. If the Code Enforcement
Officer determines that a certificate of occupancy/certificate of
compliance or a temporary certificate was issued in error because
of incorrect, inaccurate or incomplete information, and if the relevant
deficiencies are not corrected to the satisfaction of the Code Enforcement
Officer within such period of time as shall be specified by the Code
Enforcement Officer, the Code Enforcement Officer shall revoke or
suspend such certificate.
The chief of any fire department providing firefighting services
for a property within this Town shall promptly notify the Code Enforcement
Officer of any fire or explosion involving any structural damage,
fuel-burning appliance, chimney or gas vent.
Unsafe structures and equipment and conditions of imminent danger in this Town shall be identified and addressed in accordance with the procedures established by Chapter 99 of the Code of the Town of Schodack, as now in effect or as hereafter amended from time to time.
A.
Operating permits required.
(1)
Operating permits shall be required for conducting the activities
or using the categories of buildings listed below:
(a)
Manufacturing, storing or handling hazardous materials in quantities exceeding those listed in the applicable Maximum Allowable Quantity tables found in Chapter 50 of the FCNYS;
(b)
Buildings, structures, facilities, processes, and/or activities
that are within the scope and/or permit requirements of the chapter
or section title of the FCNYS listed and described in Section 1203.3(g)(1)(ii)
as follows:
[1]
Chapter 22, "Combustible Dust-Producing Operations." Facilities
where the operation produces combustible dust;
[2]
Chapter 24, "Flammable Finishes." Operations utilizing flammable
or combustible liquids, or the application of combustible powders
regulated by Chapter 24 of the FCNYS;
[3]
Chapter 25, "Fruit and Crop Ripening." Operating a fruit- or
crop-ripening facility or conducting a fruit-ripening process using
ethylene gas;
[4]
Chapter 26, "Fumigation and Insecticidal Fogging." Conducting
fumigation or insecticidal fogging operations in buildings, structures,
and spaces, except for fumigation or insecticidal fogging performed
by the occupant of a detached one-family dwelling;
[5]
Chapter 31, "Tents, Temporary Special Event Structures, and
Other Membrane Structures." Operating an air-supported temporary membrane
structure, a temporary special event structure, or a tent where approval
is required pursuant to Chapter 31 of the FCNYS;
[6]
Chapter 32, "High-piled combustible storage." High-piled combustible storage facilities with more than 500 square feet (including aisles) of high-piled storage;
[7]
Chapter 34, "Tire Rebuilding and Tire Storage." Operating a
facility that stores in excess of 2,500 cubic feet of scrap tires
or tire by-products or operating a tire rebuilding plant;
[8]
Chapter 35, "Welding and Other Hot Work." Performing public
exhibitions and demonstrations where hot work is conducted, use of
hot work, welding, or cutting equipment, inside or on a structure,
except an operating permit is not required where work is conducted
under the authorization of a building permit or where performed by
the occupant of a detached one- or two-family dwelling;
[9]
Chapter 40, "Sugarhouse Alternative Activity Provisions." Conducting
an alternative activity at a sugarhouse;
[10]
Chapter 56, "Explosives and Fireworks." Possessing, manufacturing,
storing, handling, selling, or using, explosives, fireworks, or other
pyrotechnic special effects materials, except the outdoor use of sparkling
devices as defined by Penal Law § 270;
[11]
Section 307, "Open Burning, Recreational Fires and Portable
Outdoor Fireplaces." Conducting open burning, not including recreational
fires and portable outdoor fireplaces;
[12]
Section 308, "Open Flames." Removing paint with a torch or using
open flames, fire, and burning in connection with assembly areas or
educational occupancies; and
[13]
Section 319, "Mobile Food Preparation Vehicles." Operating a
mobile food preparation vehicle.
(c)
Hazardous processes and activities, including but not limited
to commercial and industrial operations which produce combustible
dust as a by-product, fruit and crop ripening, and waste handling;
(d)
Energy storage systems, where the system exceeds the values
shown in Table 1206.1 of the FCNYS or exceeds the permitted aggregate
ratings in Section R327.5 of the RCNYS;
(e)
Use of pyrotechnic devices in assembly occupancies;
(f)
Buildings containing one or more assembly areas;
(g)
Outdoor events where the planned attendance exceeds 1,000 persons;
(h)
Parking garages as defined in Section 1203.3(j);
(i)
Buildings whose use or occupancy classification may pose a substantial
potential hazard to public safety, as determined by resolution adopted
by the Town Board of this Town.
B.
Applications for operating permits. An application for an operating
permit shall be in writing on a form provided by or otherwise acceptable
to the Code Enforcement Officer. Such application shall include such
information as the Code Enforcement Officer deems sufficient to permit
a determination by the Code Enforcement Officer that quantities, materials,
and activities conform to the requirements of the Uniform Code. If
the Code Enforcement Officer determines that tests or reports are
necessary to verify conformance, such tests or reports shall be performed
or provided by such person or persons as may be designated by or otherwise
acceptable to the Code Enforcement Officer, at the expense of the
applicant.
C.
Inspections. The Code Enforcement Officer or an inspector authorized
by the Code Enforcement Officer shall inspect the subject premises
prior to the issuance of an operating permit.
D.
Multiple activities. In any circumstance in which more than one activity listed in Subsection A of this section is to be conducted at a location, the Code Enforcement Officer may require a separate operating permit for each such activity, or the Code Enforcement Officer may, in his or her discretion, issue a single operating permit to apply to all such activities.
E.
Duration of operating permits.
(1)
Operating permits shall remain in effect until reissued, renewed,
or revoked and shall be issued for a specified period of time as determined
by the Code Enforcement Officer consistent with local conditions,
not to exceed:
(2)
The effective period of each operating permit shall be specified
in the operating permit. An operating permit may be reissued or renewed
upon application to the Code Enforcement Officer, payment of the applicable
fee, and approval of such application by the Code Enforcement Officer.
F.
Revocation or suspension of operating permits. If the Code Enforcement
Officer determines that any activity or building for which an operating
permit was issued does not comply with any applicable provision of
the Uniform Code, such operating permit shall be revoked or suspended.
A.
Inspections required. Fire safety and property maintenance inspections
of buildings and structures shall be performed by the Code Enforcement
Officer or an inspector designated by the Code Enforcement Officer
at the following intervals:
(1)
Fire safety and property maintenance inspections of buildings or
structures which contain an area of public assembly shall be performed
at least once every 12 months.
(2)
Fire safety and property maintenance inspections of buildings or
structures being occupied as dormitories shall be performed at least
once every 12 months.
B.
Inspections permitted. In addition to the inspections required by Subsection A of this section, a fire safety and property maintenance inspection of any building, structure, use, or occupancy, or of any dwelling unit, may also be performed by the Code Enforcement Officer or an inspector designated by the Code Enforcement Officer at any time upon:
(1)
The request of the owner of the property to be inspected or an authorized
agent of such owner;
(2)
Receipt by the Code Enforcement Officer of a written statement alleging
that conditions or activities failing to comply with the Uniform Code
or Energy Code exist; or
(3)
Receipt by the Code Enforcement Officer of any other information,
reasonably believed by the Code Enforcement Officer to be reliable,
giving rise to reasonable cause to believe that conditions or activities
failing to comply with the Uniform Code or Energy Code exist; provided,
however, that nothing in this subsection shall be construed as permitting
an inspection under any circumstances under which a court order or
warrant permitting such inspection is required, unless such court
order or warrant shall have been obtained.
C.
After each inspection, the premises shall be noted as satisfactory,
or the owner and operator shall be notified as to the manner in which
the premises fails to comply with the Uniform Code, including a citation
to the specific Uniform Code provision or provisions that have not
been met.
The Code Enforcement Officer shall review and investigate complaints
which allege or assert the existence of conditions or activities that
fail to comply with the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, this chapter,
or any other local law or regulation adopted for administration and
enforcement of the Uniform Code or the Energy Code. The process for
responding to a complaint shall include such of the following steps
as the Code Enforcement Officer may deem to be appropriate:
A.
Performing an inspection of the conditions and/or activities alleged
to be in violation and documenting the results of such inspection;
B.
If a violation is found to exist, providing the owner of the affected property and any other person who may be responsible for the violation with notice of the violation and opportunity to abate, correct or cure the violation, or otherwise proceeding in the manner described in § 90-17 Compliance orders; appearance tickets; civil penalties; injunctive relief, of this chapter;
C.
If appropriate, issuing a stop-work order;
D.
If a violation which was found to exist is abated or corrected, performing
an inspection to ensure that the violation has been abated or corrected,
preparing a final written report reflecting such abatement or correction,
and filing such report with the complaint.
A.
Condition assessments of parking garages shall be required pursuant
to the requirements and features described in this section.
B.
CONDITION ASSESSMENT
DETERIORATION
PARKING GARAGE
(1)
(2)
(3)
PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER
RESPONSIBLE PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER
UNSAFE CONDITION
UNSAFE STRUCTURE
Definitions. For the purposes of this section, the following terms
shall be deemed to have the meanings shown:
An on-site inspection and evaluation of a parking garage
for evidence of deterioration of any structural element or building
component of such parking garage, evidence of the existence of any
unsafe condition in such parking garage, and evidence indicating that
such parking garage is an unsafe structure.
The weakening, disintegration, corrosion, rust, or decay
of any structural element or building component or any other loss
of effectiveness of a structural element or building component.
Any building or structure, or part thereof, in which any
structural level, or part thereof, is used for parking or storage
of motor vehicles, excluding:
Buildings in which the only level used for parking or storage
of motor vehicles is entirely supported on soil or engineered fill
and not supported on structural framing;
An attached or accessory structure providing parking exclusively
for a detached one- or two-family dwelling; and
A townhouse unit with attached parking exclusively for such
unit.
An individual who is licensed or otherwise authorized under
Article 145 of the Education Law to practice the profession of engineering
in the State of New York and who has at least three years of experience
performing structural evaluations.
The professional engineer who performs a condition assessment,
or under whose supervision a condition assessment is performed, and
who seals and signs the condition assessment report.
The conditions identified as unsafe in Sections 304.1.1,
305.1.1, and 306.1.1 of the PMCNYS.
A structure that is so damaged, decayed, dilapidated, or
structurally unsafe, or is of such faulty construction or unstable
foundation, that partial or complete collapse is possible.
C.
Condition assessments: general requirements. The owner or operator of each parking garage shall cause such parking garage to undergo an initial condition assessment as described in Subsection D, periodic condition assessments as described in Subsection E, and such additional condition assessments as may be required under Subsection F. Each condition assessment shall be conducted by or under the direct supervision of a responsible professional engineer. A written report of each condition assessment shall be prepared and provided to the authority having jurisdiction, in accordance with the requirements of Subsection G. Before performing a condition assessment (other than the initial condition assessment) of a parking garage, the responsible professional engineer for such condition assessment shall review all available previous condition assessment reports for such parking garage.
D.
Initial condition assessment. Each parking garage shall undergo an
initial condition assessment as follows:
(1)
Parking garages constructed on or after August 29, 2018, shall undergo
an initial condition assessment following construction and prior to
a certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance being issued
for the structure.
(2)
Parking garages constructed prior to August 29, 2018, shall undergo
an initial condition assessment as follows:
(a)
If originally constructed prior to January 1, 1984, then prior
to October 1, 2019;
(b)
If originally constructed between January 1, 1984, and December
31, 2002, then prior to October 1, 2020; and
(c)
If originally constructed between January 1, 2003, and August
28, 2018, then prior to October 1, 2021.
E.
Periodic condition assessments. Following the initial condition assessment
of a parking garage, such parking garage shall undergo periodic condition
assessments at intervals not to exceed three years.
F.
Additional condition assessments.
(1)
If the latest condition assessment report for a parking garage includes a recommendation by the responsible professional engineer that an additional condition assessment of such parking garage, or any portion of such parking garage, be performed before the date by which the next periodic condition assessment would be required under Subsection E, the Code Enforcement Officer shall require the owner or operator of such parking garage to cause such parking garage (or, if applicable, the portion of such parking garage identified by the responsible professional engineer) to undergo an additional condition assessment no later than the date recommended in such condition assessment report.
(2)
If the Code Enforcement Officer becomes aware of any new or increased deterioration which, in the judgment of the authority having jurisdiction, indicates that an additional condition assessment of the entire parking garage, or of the portion of the parking garage affected by such new or increased deterioration, should be performed before the date by which the next periodic condition assessment would be required under Subsection E, the Code Enforcement Officer shall require the owner or operator of such parking garage to cause such parking garage (or, if applicable, the portion of the parking garage affected by such new or increased deterioration) to undergo an additional condition assessment no later than the date determined by the authority having jurisdiction to be appropriate.
G.
Condition assessment reports. The responsible professional engineer
shall prepare, or directly supervise the preparation of, a written
report of each condition assessment and shall submit such condition
assessment report to the Code Enforcement Officer within such time
period as fixed by the authority having jurisdiction. Such condition
assessment report shall be sealed and signed by the responsible professional
engineer and shall include:
(1)
An evaluation and description of the extent of deterioration and
conditions that cause deterioration that could result in an unsafe
condition or unsafe structure;
(2)
An evaluation and description of the extent of deterioration and
conditions that cause deterioration that, in the opinion of the responsible
professional engineer, should be remedied immediately to prevent an
unsafe condition or unsafe structure;
(3)
An evaluation and description of the unsafe conditions;
(4)
An evaluation and description of the problems associated with the
deterioration, conditions that cause deterioration, and unsafe conditions;
(5)
An evaluation and description of the corrective options available,
including the recommended time frame for remedying the deterioration,
conditions that cause deterioration, and unsafe conditions;
(6)
An evaluation and description of the risks associated with not addressing
the deterioration, conditions that cause deterioration, and unsafe
conditions;
(7)
The responsible professional engineer's recommendation regarding
preventative maintenance;
(8)
Except in the case of the report of the initial condition assessment,
the responsible professional engineer's attestation that he or
she reviewed all previously prepared condition assessment reports
available for such parking garage and considered the information in
the previously prepared reports while performing the current condition
assessment and while preparing the current report; and
(9)
The responsible professional engineer's recommendation regarding
the time within which the next condition assessment of the parking
garage or portion thereof should be performed. In making the recommendation
regarding the time within which the next condition assessment of the
parking garage or portion thereof should be performed, the responsible
professional engineer shall consider the parking garage's age,
maintenance history, structural condition, construction materials,
frequency and intensity of use, location, exposure to the elements,
and any other factors deemed relevant by the responsible professional
engineer in his or her professional judgment.
H.
The Code Enforcement Officer shall review each condition assessment report and shall take such enforcement action or actions in response to the information in such condition assessment report as may be necessary or appropriate to protect the public from the hazards that may result from the conditions described in such report. In particular, but not by way of limitation, the Code Enforcement Officer shall, by order to remedy or such other means of enforcement as the Code Enforcement Officer may deem appropriate, require the owner or operator of the parking garage to repair or otherwise remedy all deterioration, all conditions that cause deterioration, and all unsafe conditions identified in such condition assessment report pursuant to Subsection G(2) and (3). All repairs and remedies shall comply with the applicable provisions of the Uniform Code. Neither herein shall limit or impair the right of the Code Enforcement Officer to take any other enforcement action, including but not limited to placing a "Do Not Occupy" order or suspension or revocation of a parking garage's operating permit, as may be necessary or appropriate in response to the information in a condition assessment report.
I.
All condition assessment reports shall be maintained for the life
of the parking garage. Upon request by a professional engineer who
has been engaged to perform a condition assessment of a parking garage
and who provides the Code Enforcement Officer with a written statement
attesting to the fact that he or she has been so engaged, the Code
Enforcement Officer shall make the previously prepared condition assessment
reports for such parking garage (or copies of such reports) available
to such professional engineer. The Code Enforcement Officer shall
be permitted to require the owner or operator of the subject parking
garage to pay all costs and expenses associated with making such previously
prepared condition assessment reports (or copies thereof) available
to the professional engineer.
J.
Nothing in this section shall limit or impair the right or the obligation
of the Code Enforcement Officer:
(1)
To perform such construction inspections as are required by the stricter
of Section 1203.3(b) or this chapter;
(2)
To perform such periodic fire safety and property maintenance inspections
as are required by the stricter of Section 1203.3(h) or this chapter;
and/or
(3)
To take such enforcement action or actions as may be necessary or
appropriate to respond to any condition that comes to the attention
of the Code Enforcement Officer by means of his or her own inspections
or observations, by means of a complaint, or by any other means other
than a condition assessment or a report of a condition assessment.
K.
The use of the term "responsible professional engineer" in this section
shall not be construed as limiting the professional responsibility
or liability of any professional engineer, or of any other licensed
professional, who participates in the preparation of a condition assessment
without being the responsible professional engineer for such condition
assessment.
The Code Enforcement Officer shall establish and make available
climatic and geographic design criteria as required by the Uniform
Code, including but not limited to:
A.
Establishing design criteria to include ground snow load; wind design
loads; seismic category; potential damage from weathering, frost,
and termites; winter design temperature; whether ice barrier underlayment
is required; the air freezing index; and the mean annual temperature;
B.
Establishing heating and cooling equipment design criteria for structures within the scope of the RCNYS. The design criteria shall include the data identified in the Design Criteria Table found in Chapter 3 of the RCNYS; and
C.
Establishing flood hazard areas, flood hazard maps, and supporting
data. The flood hazard map shall include, at a minimum, special flood
hazard areas as identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency
in the Flood Insurance Study for the community, as amended or revised
with:
A.
The Code Enforcement Officer shall keep permanent official records
of all transactions and activities conducted by all code enforcement
personnel, including records of:
(1)
All applications received, reviewed and approved or denied;
(2)
All plans, specifications and construction documents approved;
(3)
All building permits, certificates of occupancy/certificates of compliance,
temporary certificates, stop-work orders, and operating permits issued;
(4)
All inspections and tests performed;
(5)
All statements and reports issued;
(6)
All complaints received;
(7)
All investigations conducted;
(8)
All other features and activities specified in or contemplated by §§ 90-4 through 12, inclusive, of this chapter; and
(9)
All fees charged and collected.
B.
All such records shall be public records open for public inspection
during normal business hours. All plans and records pertaining to
buildings or structures, or appurtenances thereto, shall be retained
for at least the minimum time period so required by state law and
regulation.
A.
The Code Enforcement Officer shall annually submit to the Town Board of this Town a written report and summary of all business conducted by the Code Enforcement Officer and the inspectors, including a report and summary of all transactions and activities described in § 90-15, Recordkeeping, of this chapter and a report and summary of all appeals or litigation pending or concluded.
B.
The Code Enforcement Officer shall annually submit to the Secretary
of State, on behalf of this Town, on a form prescribed by the Secretary
of State, a report of the activities of this Town relative to administration
and enforcement of the Uniform Code.
C.
The Code Enforcement Officer shall, upon request of the New York
State Department of State, provide to the New York State Department
of State, from the records and related materials this Town is required
to maintain, excerpts, summaries, tabulations, statistics and other
information and accounts of the activities of this Town in connection
with administration and enforcement of the Uniform Code.
A.
Compliance orders. The Code Enforcement Officer is authorized to
order, in writing, the remedying of any condition or activity found
to exist in, on or about any building, structure, or premises in violation
of the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, or this chapter. Upon finding
that any such condition or activity exists, the Code Enforcement Officer
shall issue a compliance order. The compliance order shall be in writing;
be dated and signed by the Code Enforcement Officer; specify the condition
or activity that violates the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, or this
chapter; specify the provision or provisions of the Uniform Code,
the Energy Code, or this chapter which is/are violated by the specified
condition or activity; specify the period of time which the Code Enforcement
Officer deems to be reasonably necessary for achieving compliance;
direct that compliance be achieved within the specified period of
time; and state that an action or proceeding to compel compliance
may be instituted if compliance is not achieved within the specified
period of time. The Code Enforcement Officer shall cause the compliance
order, or a copy thereof, to be served on the owner of the affected
property personally or by certified mail, return receipt requested.
The Code Enforcement Officer shall be permitted, but not required,
to cause the compliance order, or a copy thereof, to be served on
any builder, architect, tenant, contractor, subcontractor, construction
superintendent, or their agents, or any other person taking part or
assisting in work being performed at the affected property personally
or by certified mail, return receipt requested; provided, however,
that failure to serve any person mentioned in this sentence shall
not affect the efficacy of the compliance order.
B.
Appearance tickets. The Code Enforcement Officer and each inspector
are authorized to issue appearance tickets for any violation of the
Uniform Code.
C.
Civil penalties. In addition to those penalties prescribed by state
law, any person who violates any provision of the Uniform Code, the
Energy Code or this chapter, or any term or condition of any building
permit, certificate of occupancy/certificate of compliance, temporary
certificate, stop-work order, operating permit or other notice or
order issued by the Code Enforcement Officer pursuant to any provision
of this chapter shall be liable to a civil penalty of not more than
$200 for each day or part thereof during which such violation continues.
The civil penalties provided by this subsection shall be recoverable
in an action instituted in the name of this Town.
D.
Injunctive relief. An action or proceeding may be instituted in the
name of this Town, in a court of competent jurisdiction, to prevent,
restrain, enjoin, correct, or abate any violation of, or to enforce,
any provision of the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, this chapter,
or any term or condition of any building permit, certificate of occupancy/certificate
of compliance, temporary certificate, stop-work order, operating permit,
compliance order, or other notice or order issued by the Code Enforcement
Officer pursuant to any provision of this chapter. In particular,
but not by way of limitation, where the construction or use of a building
or structure is in violation of any provision of the Uniform Code,
the Energy Code, this chapter, or any stop-work order, compliance
order or other order obtained under the Uniform Code, the Energy Code
or this chapter, an action or proceeding may be commenced in the name
of this Town, in the Supreme Court or in any other court having the
requisite jurisdiction, to obtain an order directing the removal of
the building or structure or an abatement of the condition in violation
of such provisions. No action or proceeding described in this subsection
shall be commenced without the appropriate authorization from the
Town Board of this Town.
E.
Remedies not exclusive. No remedy or penalty specified in this section shall be the exclusive remedy or penalty available to address any violation described in this section, and each remedy or penalty specified in this section shall be in addition to, and not in substitution for or limitation of, the other remedies or penalties specified in this section, in § 90-6, Stop-work orders, of this chapter, in any other section of this chapter, or in any other applicable law. Any remedy or penalty specified in this section may be pursued at any time, whether prior to, simultaneously with, or after the pursuit of any other remedy or penalty specified in this section, in § 90-6, Stop-work orders, of this chapter, in any other section of this chapter, or in any other applicable law. In particular, but not by way of limitation, each remedy and penalty specified in this section shall be in addition to, and not in substitution for or limitation of, the penalties specified in Subdivision 2 of § 382 of the Executive Law, and any remedy or penalty specified in this section may be pursued at any time, whether prior to, simultaneously with, or after the pursuit of any penalty specified in Subdivision 2 of § 382 of the Executive Law.
A fee schedule shall be established from time to time by resolution
of the Town Board of this Town. Such fee schedule may thereafter be
amended from time to time by like resolution. The fees set forth in,
or determined in accordance with, such fee schedule or amended fee
schedule shall be charged and collected for the submission of applications,
the issuance of building permits, amended building permits, renewed
building permits, certificates of occupancy/certificates of compliance,
temporary certificates, operating permits, fire safety and property
maintenance inspections, and other actions of the Code Enforcement
Officer described in or contemplated by this chapter.
The Town Board of this Town may, by resolution, authorize the
Mayor of this Town to enter into an agreement, in the name of this
Town, with other governments to carry out the terms of this chapter,
provided that such agreement does not violate any provision of the
Uniform Code, the Energy Code, 19 NYCRR Part 1203, or any other applicable
law.
