Councilman Smyth’s Resolution to Waive all Outdoor Construction Building Permit Fees Passes

HUNTINGTON – In an effort to stimulate jobs for all construction trades, while encouraging residents to spend more time outside, Councilman Ed Smyth introduced a resolution at the April 21, 2020 Town Board Meeting waiving all fees for outdoor construction, installation or repair of exterior improvements such as sheds, porches, decks, pools, fencing, retaining walls and other similar structures and projects until September 1, 2020. The Town Board, mindful of the economic and personal impact COVID-19 has had on town residents and the community at large, passed this resolution unanimously.

In all cases, building permit applications are required to ensure that the Town has a record of the construction and repair being initiated and completed. Inspections of construction and repairs will also continue to be required.

This resolution creates “shovel-ready” jobs for local trades. The relatively small scope of these projects calls for low “soft-costs” or minimal engineering. Further, the nature of the projects encourages people to go outdoors.

Larger projects will have to wait until quarantine restrictions have been lifted. However, any project that can be completed by one worker will be permitted to begin immediately. It is anticipated this restriction will be eased to eventually allow for 2-person jobs to begin. Councilman Smyth reminds workers to maintain appropriate social distancing and use personal protections such as face masks and gloves, which are commonplace on job sites anyway. Homeowners can have all necessary paperwork and permits in-hand so work can start immediately. Permit renewal fees are not waived.