Garage Permits in New York: The Complete Guide

By French’s Contracting – NY Garage & Structure Specialists

Planning to build a garage in New York? Whether you're adding storage, protecting vehicles, or building a workshop, understanding permit requirements is critical before starting construction.

At French’s Contracting, we help homeowners across New York navigate zoning laws, setbacks, inspections, and local code requirements so your project moves forward without delays or fines.

This guide explains:

  • When you need a garage permit in NY

  • Electrical permit requirements

  • What plans are required

  • Common customization approvals

  • City and county-specific permit considerations

  • How to avoid costly mistakes

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in NY?

Yes. In most cases, a building permit is required to construct a new garage in New York.

Garages are considered permanent structures and must comply with:

  • New York State Building Code

  • Local zoning laws

  • Setback requirements

  • Lot coverage limits

  • Structural snow & wind load standards

Requirements vary by town, city, and county—which is why working with a local professional like French’s Contracting simplifies the process.

Do I Need a Permit to Run Electricity to My Garage in NY?

Yes.

Running electric to a garage is classified as new electrical work and requires:

  • Electrical permit

  • Licensed electrician (in most municipalities)

  • Inspection approval

Skipping this step can result in:

  • Fines

  • Insurance issues

  • Failed inspections

  • Delays during property resale

We coordinate with licensed electricians to ensure your structure meets all local code requirements.

Do I Need Garage Plans or Floor Plans in NY?

Almost always, yes. 

Unless we are building a "Movable Structure"

Most building departments require:

  • Site plan (showing setbacks & property lines)

  • Floor plan

  • Elevations

  • Structural details

For larger or attached garages, plans may need to be stamped by a NY-licensed engineer.

At French’s Contracting, we ensure all structures meet state code before delivery and assist you in preparing what your town requires.

Garage Customizations That May Require Approval

Many upgrades require additional permits or code review, including:

  • Electrical packages

  • Insulation

  • Heating or mini-splits

  • Loft storage

  • Plumbing

  • Garage conversions

  • Epoxy flooring

  • Structural modifications

We help you understand what is permitted in your municipality before installation.

Garage Permit Requirements by City in New York

Permit requirements are enforced at the local level. Below are common municipalities we work in across New York:

Albany
Amherst
Babylon
Binghamton
Brookhaven
Buffalo
Colonie
Freeport
Glen Cove
Greece
Greenburgh
Hempstead
Huntington
Irondequoit
Islip
Ithaca
Jamestown
Kingston
New Rochelle
New York City
Niagara Falls
North Tonawanda
Nyack
Oneonta
Ossining
Peekskill
Poughkeepsie
Ramapo
Rochester
Rome
Syracuse
Utica
White Plains
Yonkers

If your town is not listed, contact us — we work throughout New York State.

Garage Permit Requirements by County in New York

Permit enforcement may also involve county-level oversight in:

Albany County
Broome County
Dutchess County
Erie County
Monroe County
Nassau County
Niagara County
Oneida County
Onondaga County
Orange County
Rockland County
Saratoga County
Schenectady County
Suffolk County
Ulster County
Westchester County

Local zoning always overrides general guidance — which is why verifying before building is essential.

Why Work With French’s Contracting?

Unlike national companies, we understand the permit process in New York towns and rural municipalities.

We provide:

✔ Assistance navigating local permit offices
✔ Custom sizes 6x8 up to 12x40+
✔ Garage, shed, and outdoor structure solutions
✔ Delivery throughout New York

We don’t just drop a building — we help you do it right.

Avoid These Common Permit Mistakes

  • Building before approval

  • Ignoring setback requirements

  • Skipping electrical permits

  • Assuming small garages don’t require permits

  • Not verifying HOA restrictions

  • Failing to submit proper site plans

A mistake can cost thousands in fines or removal orders.

Custom Garages Built to NY State Code

French’s Contracting offers fully customizable garage buildings including:

  • Single-car garages

  • Double-wide garages

  • Workshop-style garages

  • A-Frame and Gambrel designs

  • Custom siding options

  • Additional windows & doors

  • Insulation packages

  • Electrical packages

All structures are built to meet New York structural load requirements.

Ready to Build?

Before starting your garage project, let’s make sure you’re compliant and protected.

📞 Call French’s Contracting today
📍 Serving homeowners across New York

We’ll help you design, permit, and install your garage the right way.

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