Building Department

The Sand Lake Building Department assists its residents with local Zoning Codes, NY State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Codes. Because of the in-depth information with these laws, some information may seem confusing. Should you have any additional questions about these laws, please contact the Building and Zoning Inspection with questions.

 Permits are required for items like signs, fences, swimming pools, sheds and side work. Other permits that are required by Zoning are reviewed by the Planning Board for compliance before permits are issued. There are many uses that require Zoning Permits and review.

SPRING AHEAD! A reminder to check you smoke detector and c/o2 detector when changing the clocks for daylight saving time!

Our Building Department would like to remind residents to check their smoke detector and c/o2 detector this weekend when we Spring Ahead for daylight savings time. 

NEW YORK – On Sunday, March 12th (Daylight Saving Time), New Yorkers will set their clocks forward one hour. The Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY) is urging everyone to check their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors at that time. Homeowners with alarms that have sealed, non-removable batteries should test the alarms to see if they are functional and check their expiration dates. Alarms equipped with removable batteries should have their batteries replaced and then test the alarm.

New York State currently leads the nation in home fire deaths, with 36 deaths in the first two months of 2023. In an emergency, working smoke detectors are a resident’s first line of defense and can give people critical time to escape. According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) three of every five home fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms or in homes lacking smoke alarms.

“The additional time a smoke or CO alarm provides can be the difference between life and death. says FASNY President Edward Tase, Jr. “We encourage everyone to check their smoke and CO alarms monthly to ensure that they are functioning properly. In addition, fire sprinkler systems are proven to save lives and these systems should be installed when possible.”

New York State has banned the sale of smoke alarms with removable batteries. This was an important step to increase public safety, but individuals must also be diligent about installing these more user-friendly alarms and ensuring that they are in working order.

 

There is legislation awaiting introduction for this session that will allow home life safety products, like smoke detectors, to be tax-exempt. This legislation also includes fire extinguishers, heat, and carbon monoxide alarms purchased for residential use. These devices can mean the difference between life and death, and FASNY supports the elimination of any economic barrier in obtaining these products. The Senate and Assembly should move this legislation without delay.

Smoke Alarm Tips from FASNY and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):
Test alarms at least once a month by using the test button.
If you have an alarm with a removable battery, be sure to check the batteries every six months, and change the batteries every year. If a battery is starting to lose its power, the unit will usually chirp to warn you. Do NOT disable the unit.
Vacuum or blow out any dust that might accumulate in the unit.
NEVER borrow a battery from an alarm to use somewhere else.
NEVER paint a smoke or CO alarm.
Install at least one smoke alarm on every floor of your home, including the basement, and in, or near each sleeping area.
Smoke alarms should not be installed near a window because drafts could interfere with their operation.
Families should also develop and practice a home fire escape plan.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for testing smoke alarms and replacing the batteries.

For more information on smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and other information on fire safety and prevention, visit www.fasny.com and www.nfpa.org.
About FASNY

Founded in 1872, the Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY) represents the interests of the approximately 80,000 volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel in New York State.? For more information, visit www.fasny.com.

 

Building Permits

New York State Law and Town Law mandate when permits are required. For example, permits are required for: new homes, commercial buildings, additions, renovations, accessory structures, swimming pools, wood stoves, fireplaces, furnaces, air conditioning installation, plumbing, etc. If you are not sure that your project requires a building permit, please contact our office.
 
 

Stormwater Management Program and Plan