Permits

Permits Applications can either be downloaded (see the available permits table below) and completed in the Code Enforcement office, or completed online.


BUILDING PERMITS ONLINE

We are pleased to offer our citizens and businesses the opportunity to apply and pay for permits online. 

To apply for permits online, you are required to create an account on the Accela Citizen Access (ACA) Portal.

Once an account has been created, log in to begin the permit application process.

Click here to be redirected to the Accela Citizen Access (ACA) portal. 

How to create an ACA account?

How to Apply/Register online for Permits?

All permit questions should be directed to City Code Enforcement Office by calling (315)785-7735.



FRAUD WARNING! Payments are only accepted in person, via check mailed to the City, or online directly on our Accela payment interface. The City does NOT use WIRE TRANSFERS for payments. Requests for wire transfer payments are fraudulent. 



PERMIT DECISION TOOL

Not sure which permit you need? Click here to use our Permit Decision Tool.


Permits available are: Important information / documents:

Building Permit
Examples of when a Building Permit would be required:
For new construction, additions, garage, deck, shed
*Zoning Approval may be required prior to obtaining a Building Permit
CLICK FOR Building Permit



Signature Authorization
is required when someone other than the owner is going to pick up and sign for the permit.
Signature Authorization





Maintenance and Repair Permit
Examples of when a Maintenance & Repair would be required:
Alternations, roof, repair an existing deck
CLICK FOR Maintenance & Repair Permit



Affidavit of Exemption for Owner Occupied Residence
This document acts as proof of Workers Compensation Insurance Coverage for 1, 2, 3, or 4 family owner-occupied residences
Affidavit of Exemption



Plumbing Permit
A Plumbing Permit is required for any plumbing work done within a structure.
The owner of a property may do the plumbing work themselves.
If the owner is not doing the work, the plumbing must be done by a
City of Watertown Licensed Master Plumbers.
CLICK FOR Plumbing Permits



Additional Documents/Resources

Required documents
Inspection Information
City of Watertown Licensed Master Plumbers
Electrical Inspection Firms



Heating Permit
A Heating Permit is required when replacing any kind of heating apparatus such as
a natural gas furnace, water heater, or boiler.
CLICK FOR Heat Permit



Fee Schedule
This Fee Schedule states how much each permit costs.
*Building permit and Maintenance & Repair Permit costs are determined by the cost of the project

Fee Schedule


Fence Permit
A Fence Permit is required when installing a new fence, or replacing portions of an existing fence.
CLICK FOR Fence Permits






Operating Permit
Multiple applications fall under the Operating Permit category.

Operating permit -Event tents
Special Burn Permit -Chicken BBQ at Local establishments
Tank Permit -The temporary use of propane for local events
Fireworks Permit -City events that include fireworks



Sign Permit
A Sign Permit is required when ever new signage is added to a building or structure, an existing sign is being altered, or refaced.
The allowed square footage for signage is based off of linear footage of the front of space or property and the zoning district.
CLICK FOR Sign Permit






 

General Information
Phone Numbers
(315) 785-7735
Fax: (315) 785-7854
Emergencies: Dial 911
Location
245 Washington St., Rm. 105
Watertown,
NY
13601

Monday - Friday
8:30 am - 4:30 pm