Periodic Inspections

The Division of Code Enforcement performs periodic inspections to check for a number of property conditions that help ensure public health and safety. Different certifications are required depending on the type and occupancy of your property. Below is an overview of certifications and inspections required for rental and vacant properties, certain business establishments, or performed by request of the owner of the property.

Required Certifications

Rental Registry: If you own a one or two-unit rental property in the city of Syracuse, you must obtain a Rental Registry Certificate and inspection every three years, or after the sale of a property. The fee to apply and obtain a certificate is $150. 

 Certificate of Compliance: If you own a three or more-unit rental property, mixed-use structure, inn, dormitory, or Greek housing in the city of Syracuse, you must obtain a Certificate of Compliance and inspection every three years, or for the transfer of title prior to the sale of a property. The fee to apply and obtain a certificate is $55 plus $20 for each unit in excess of two.  

Vacant Property Registry: If you own a vacant property with exterior code violations in the city of Syracuse, you must register your property. The goal of the Vacant Property Registry (VPR) is to reduce blight in neighborhoods by motivating owners of dilapidated properties to bring their property back to productive use. The Vacant Property Registry Certificate is valid for one year from the date of issuance and must be renewed annually as long as the building remains vacant.  

Certificate of Use: If you own a bar, restaurant, drugstore, food store under 20,000 square feet or with a pharmacy, or smoking establishment in the city of Syracuse, you must obtain a Certificate of Use and inspection every two years. The fee to apply and obtain a certificate is $500.

 To learn more about how to apply, click on the self-services below.

Requested Certifications

To obtain the following certificates, please search for the application on the City's Online Application Portal.

Certificate of Adequacy
This document is issued by request of the property owner when an inspection is made of a one or two-unit structure found to be in substantial compliance with regard to property maintenance requirements outlined in Chapter 27 of the Syracuse Property Conservation Code.  

Certificate of Inspection 
This document is issued by request of the owner of a business and is typically required for application to the New York State Liquor Authority. This certifies that the business is in substantial compliance with all applicable codes.

Self-Services