Yonkers City Council Proposes New Two-Year Building Permit Law and Reduced Fees

During the Yonkers City Legislation & Codes meeting on June 10, 2025, significant changes to building permit fees and regulations were discussed, aiming to streamline processes and attract more developers to the city.

A key resolution was the proposed amendment to Chapter 56 of the building code, which introduces a new fee schedule. This change allows for two-year permits instead of the previous one-year permits, addressing concerns raised by developers regarding the fairness and timing of payments. Additionally, after the expiration of a two-year permit, developers can obtain an additional 90-day permit at a pro-rated fee, ensuring they are not burdened with full additional year fees if their projects extend beyond the initial permit duration. Overall, this adjustment is expected to reduce permit fees by approximately 20%, a move that city officials believe will not negatively impact city finances while encouraging development.

The meeting also touched on the need for consistency in enforcement of parking regulations, particularly regarding time limits on Tuckahoe Road and Central Avenue. Council members expressed concerns about fairness in ticketing practices, emphasizing the importance of uniformity in how regulations are applied to avoid potential disputes.

In addition to these discussions, the council reviewed a proposed local law aimed at addressing indoor asthma and allergen hazards in multiple dwellings, indicating a commitment to improving public health standards in housing.

These legislative efforts reflect Yonkers' proactive approach to fostering a more developer-friendly environment while also prioritizing community health and safety. As these proposals move forward, they are expected to have a lasting impact on the city's growth and livability.