Commercial Construction Permits

If you are planning to remodel or build a new commercial building, certain permits are required depending on the type of work. Permits are proof that your project follows health and safety rules. You must apply for permits before starting construction.

A commercial building is defined as a building that is any of the following:

Used for commercial purposes
Mixed-use
3 or more residential units (apartments)

The construction permits listed on this page are for commercial projects only. Home improvement projects for 1-2 family properties require a residential submission and review. All trade and fire prevention permits (i.e. HVAC, Electrical, Fire Alarm, Sprinkler) must be obtained separately. Plumbing permits must be obtained through Onondaga County.

What Projects Require a Permit?

The project types listed below require a permit. Click on each project type to access the online permit application. All commercial building projects require project registration. Please scroll down to review the steps to apply before completing a permit application.

Do you need an Exterior Demolition Permit? Click here to learn more and apply.

Steps to Apply

Commercial Construction Permit Applications are on the City’s Online Application Portal. If you require assistance with online access, please visit us in person at the Central Permit Office.

Online

Step 1.Review of Commercial Development Process

There are several steps you will need to complete before applying for commercial construction permits. Click on the button below to learn more about planning for commercial development. This page will guide you through the process from start to finish. When you are ready to submit your building permits, see step 2.

Planning for Commercial Development

Step 2.What you Need to Apply

The list below includes requested documents required to apply. View the Checklist for Commercial Permit Application for a complete list of everything you will need to submit with your application. You will need to wait until your plans are finalized and certified to apply for permits.

Construction documents
Documents showing compliance with state energy code
Construction plans
Structural information
Shop drawings for fire protection systems
Proof of compliance with fire code
Proof of Insurances (Liability, Disability, Workers' Compensation or exemption equivalent)

Step 3.Access Application

Select the project type listed above to access the online permit application. If this is your first time using the Online Application Portal, you will need to create an account. Instructions for the portal can be found here.

Step 4.Complete Application

Follow the steps to provide the required information.

Step 5.Submit Payment

A base filing fee must be paid up front. All other additional fees will be calculated once the review is approved. You will be notified when additional fees are due and for how much. The amount you need to pay will depend on:

The number of commercial units included
The number of residential units you are performing work on
The estimated cost of construction: labor and materials without mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEPs)

Pay by credit card by inputting your credit card information. Credit card fees apply. To pay by check, please visit the Central Permit Office. You can submit your application upon completing an in-person payment.

Step 6.Permit Review

All City departments that need to be involved in approving your project will conduct a review of your application and final plans. We’ll make it clear what you need to do for final approval of your site plan.

Depending on the scope of your project, it can take 8 weeks to approve plans (or longer if revisions need to be made). Keep in mind that you can’t start construction until you have all your permits. If your construction plans change significantly for any reason, please contact permits@syr.gov.

Step 7.Permit Issuance

Once your application is approved and payment is received, your permit will be issued and uploaded to the documents section of your submission. You must print the permit placard and place in an obvious location at the project site. You will have one year from the time of issuance to complete the project.

Step 8.Schedule Inspections

As you complete each phase of construction, our city inspectors will visit to ensure that the work meets New York State’s safety standards. You must contact the Division of Code Enforcement at 315-448-8695 or CodeEnforcement@syr.gov to schedule an inspection. When you call, be prepared to provide the following:

Permit number
Building address
Type of inspection(s)
Type of building (i.e. commercial, mixed-use, apartments)

Step 9.Project Completion

Once all your inspections are complete and we determine that your building is up to code and safe, your inspector will issue a Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Completion. Once you have one of those certificates, you can connect utilities to your building (power, water, and gas) and open it to the public. In you have questions regarding inspections, please contact 315-448-8695 or CodeEnforcement@syr.gov.

In Person

Step 1.Visit the Central Permit Office

One Park Place
300 South State Street, 1st Floor
Syracuse, NY 13202

The main entrance is located on the south side of the building, on East Onondaga Street. Parking is available for visitors at the One Park Place Parking Lot, located at 343 East Onondaga Street.

Step 2.Access the Application

You may use the computer located at the front kiosk in the Central Permit Office to access the application online. From here, see steps 1 to 9 outlined in the Online Steps to apply. If you have questions or need assistance, a staff member can help you.

FAQ's

How do I know if an inspection is required?

Commercial construction permits may require several inspections over the course of your project. As you complete each phase of construction, our city inspectors will visit to ensure that the work meets New York State's safety standards. The City does not perform inspections for plumbing and elevators.

For more information about commercial inspections, click here.

How do I schedule an inspection with the City?

You must contact the Division of Code Enforcement at 315-448-8695 or CodeEnforcement@syr.gov to schedule an inspection.

How do I get my permit placard?

Once the permit is approved the placard gets uploaded into the documents section. Once you receive the placard you can begin work on your project.

How long will it take to approve my permit application?

Can I pay by check?

To pay by check or money order, you must submit the payment in person to the Central Permit Office. Please make the check payable to Commissioner of Finance. We do not accept mail in payment.

How long is a permit valid for?

Once the permit is issued, you have one year to complete the work.

Can I amend my permit?

Yes, applicants will need to contact permits@syr.gov to request an amendment and have a City team member reopen the permit application to make the adjustment.