In Albany, New York, most construction work requires a permit before you can start. It’s the city’s way of making sure projects meet safety standards and follow local building codes, protecting both the property and the people who use it. Getting that approval quickly can also save you from costly delays later.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about Albany building permits, including what projects require approval, what’s exempt, how much permits cost, and how to complete your Albany building permit application without delays.
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What requires a building permit in Albany?
Albany follows New York State’s Uniform Code.
In practice, permits are required for:
- Any construction, renovation, alteration, repair, relocation, demolition, or change in occupancy/use of any structure or part of it requires a permit
- Installation, replacement, or modification of electrical devices, heating systems, cooling systems, or wood-burning appliances
- Change of use (e.g., converting residential to commercial) or commercial tenancy changes
What doesn’t require a building permit?
Some minor, non-structural cosmetic work may be exempt:
- Cosmetic or minor interior work, such as replacing flooring, tiling a bathroom, painting, or refinishing surfaces
- Simple like-for-like replacements, such as fixing a broken toilet or replacing worn flooring
When in doubt, confirm with the Albany Building Department before starting. Additionally, information on building permits can be found on the City of Albany, NY eCode360 page.
Who oversees permits in Albany?
The Department of Buildings & Regulatory Compliance (BRC) issues building and trade permits and provides an online Citizen’s Self-Service (CSS) portal for forms, property/permit info, and status.
Contact information:
- Address: 200 Henry Johnson Blvd., First Floor, Suite 1, Albany, NY 12210
- Phone number: 518-434-5995
- Working hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Albany building permit costs
Albany building permit fees depend on the value of the project and what specific type of work you're planning.
Residential fees
Commercial fees
If you need more information on your specific case, refer to the building & zoning permit application fees page.
Albany trade permits
Plumbing permits
Plumbing permits are only issued to licensed plumbers (Class A or with a Class B license for a single property). Typical scopes: new fixtures, water heaters, re-piping, gas lines.
Albany plumbing permit cost
Electrical permits
Must be filed by licensed electricians. As of 2022, third-party electrical inspections are required. Scopes include service upgrades, new circuits, panels, EV chargers, and fire alarm systems.
Albany electrical permit cost
HVAC permits
Required for new or replacement furnaces, AC/heat pumps, ductwork changes, and related mechanical systems.
Albany HVAC permit cost
Fence and roofing permits
To find more information on your specific case of trade, refer to the building & zoning permit application fees page.
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How to get a building permit in Albany, NY
Step 1: Prepare your plans & documents
First, you need to gather all required paperwork before applying.
Here's what to compile:
- Drawings or architectural plans
- Project scope and estimated valuation
- Contractor license and insurance, or NYS CE-200 waiver (if exempt from workers’ comp)
- Trade applications (plumbing, electrical, HVAC, fence, roofing, etc., if applicable)
Step 2: Submit your application
Use the BRC forms page and CSS portal to file the Albany building permit application and trade forms (plumbing/electrical/HVAC, fence, etc.).
You can submit via:
- Email (codes@albanyny.gov)
- In person (200 Henry Johnson Blvd., First Floor, Suite 1, Albany, NY 12210).
Step 3: Plan review & approval timeline
BRC’s typical review window is 7-10 business days (varies by scope/queue). Don’t start until the permit is approved and issued. Early starts risk a Stop Work Order ($300).
Step 4: Pay permit fees
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive an invoice for permit fees. Pay online through the CSS Portal, over the phone, or in person at the Permit Counter.
Step 5: Inspections & close-out
Follow your inspector’s instructions for required inspections (rough/final, and third-party electrical where applicable) and close-out.
Albany permitting resources
- Buildings & Regulatory Compliance (BRC)
- Address: 200 Henry Johnson Blvd., First Floor, Suite 1, Albany, NY 12210
- Phone number: (518) 434-5995
- Working hours: Mon–Fri 8:30–4:30
- CSS portal
- Building & zoning permit application fees
- Forms page. Most common applications:
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