Important Messages:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Building & Codes

What type of constructions requires a building permit?

The Village of Johnson City Code requires a building permit for any new structures to be erected and for an addition or for structural alterations to an existing building.

The activities that require a building permit are numerous. The following is a list of those activities that DO NOT require a permit:

  • Storage shed under 144 square feet (for 1 and 2 family dwellings only – all others must obtain a building permit) – must be in the rear yard, call for setbacks
  • Driveways
  • Concrete pads
  • Aluminum storm windows
  • Gutters and downspouts
  • Fences – call for height restrictions and setbacks for front and corner lot, good side must face neighbors

If you have any questions regarding any of these, please call the Village of Johnson City Code Enforcement/Permits Department 607-797-1021.

How does a person apply for a building permit?
A building permit application, which is available in the Town of Union Code Enforcement/Permits
Department, must be submitted along with a plot plan to be reviewed by the building inspector. In addition to the plot plan, building construction plans must be submitted for any alteration or enlargement, modification or new construction. If the cost of construction exceeds $10,000.00 or the utilization of 1,500 sq. feet, or both, the construction plans must be stamped by a registered architect or licensed professional engineer. For new construction, all utility connections must be shown.

What is a plot plan?
A plot plan is a two-dimensional drawing of the lot on which the construction will take place. The plot plans should be drawn on an 8½” by 11″ piece of paper. The actual dimensions of the lot and exact locations and size of any present and proposed buildings must be indicated. The plan should also include the yard setbacks. That is the distance between the edge of the structures and the nearest lot line. While not drawn to scale, the plot plan must show the distances indicated in number of feet.
When will the permit be issued?
The building permit will be issued within a week of the submittal of the completed application and plot plan. The building inspector will issue the permit as long as the proposed construction does not violate any zoning or building ordinance. New York State law requires us to check for proof of workers’ compensation and disability benefits coverage for all contractors prior to the issuance of any permits.
How much does a building permit cost?
The cost of a building permit is determined by the total costs of construction and any demolitions that are required to complete the project.
For One & Two Family Residential Dwellings – Ten dollars ($10.00) for the first two thousand dollars ($2,000) in construction costs and two dollars ($2.00) for every thousand or part of thousand thereafter. For Multiple Family, Commercial & Industrial Construction – Twenty-five dollars ($25.00) for the first two thousand dollars ($2,000.00) in construction costs and three dollars ($3.00) for every thousand or part of thousand thereafter.
How long is a building permit valid?
A building permit is a valid for 12 months (1 year) from the date it is issued. If construction is not started within 6 months of issuance, the permit is voided. Construction that takes longer than 12 months requires a permit renewal.
Where should the building permit be displayed?
The permit must be displayed in a prominent place, like a front window, at the address stated on the permit. The permit should be displayed during the entire period of construction.
What other permits are required?
Separate inspectors handle electrical permits, plumbing permits, and building permits. Inspections will be done periodically by the Code Enforcement Department. You must notify the inspector as spelled out on the permit application. No work should be covered until inspected. Inspectors have up to 3 days to respond to an inspection request.
Does an above ground pool have to be enclosed by a fence?
Yes, if any part of the pool wall is less than 48″ high. Any stair access to the pool must have a self closing and latching gate of four feet in height or the ladder must be the type that can be locked in the upright position when the pool is not in use.
Are there restrictions on where a pool can be placed?
Yes, the requirements are based on the Zoning District. Call the office for the setbacks for your property.
Is a pool alarm required?
Each swimming pool installed, constructed or substantially modified after December 14, 2006 shall be equipped with an approved pool alarm.
Are there regulations regarding hot tubs or spas?
Yes, it is regulated similar to a swimming pool if it holds more than 24 inches of water. Please call the Code Office for further information.
What are the regulations on fences?
No fence shall be erected or encroach upon a public right-of-way. Fences of masonry, wood or other material which create a solid visual barrier shall maintain a ten-foot setback from the front property line. Open fences of chain link wire, wrought iron, split, rail or other similar material which does not screen or obstruct views, light and air may be permitted within the ten-foot setback from the property line, provided said fence is constructed so as not to obstruct visibility or create a traffic hazard.

Maximum height – Residential: six foot with restrictions Commercial: ten foot with restrictions. The finished or decorative side shall face the adjacent properties. The fence posts and other supporting structures of the fence shall face the interior of the area to be fenced. A permit is not required. However, you should call Dig Safely New York at 1-800-962-7962 prior to digging any post holes.

CALL BEFORE YOU DIG!! Every person and/or contractor doing any type of digging, must call Dig Safely New York at 1- 800-962-7962 or 811 at least two (2) full working days prior to digging. Personnel from Dig Safely will have two (2) working days to locate and mark all of the buried lines within 15 feet of the proposed work site. This service is free. When you call, you will be asked to provide specific information including, name, address, nearest intersecting streets, is work within 500′ of a traffic signal, applicable phone numbers, means of excavating, etc. Penalties for noncompliance are severe and are set from $1,000 – $7,500.

What flood zone is my home in and what does it mean?
Flood zones are determined by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and are designated on Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM). If your home is located in a flood zone you may be required to purchase flood insurance. If you have a building/remodeling project in a flood zone, you may be required to follow additional regulations. Please contact the office at 607-786-2920.
Where are your offices located?

The Code Enforcement/ Building Permits Department is located at 243 Main Street 2nd Fl, Johnson City, NY. Phone: 607-798-7861 x5231, Fax:  607-798-7865

Where do I find information relating to the New York State Building Codes?
Visit the NYS Division of Code Enforcement and Administration at www.dos.ny.gov/dcea
Do I need to be licensed to perform construction work in Johnson City?
The Village does not license general contractors. Licenses are required for Plumbers and Electricians.
Will my construction project raise my taxes?
If you are concerned that a project may increase your taxes, please call the Town of Union Assessor at 607-786-2905 prior to starting your project to see if there will be any impact on your taxes.
How do I find information on sub-dividing or creating a new parcel of land?
Contact the building department at 607-786-2920.
Can't I just make my property any shape or size I want?
No, all property is required to be a certain size, shape and have the required frontage on an approved road. We cannot issue any permits for illegal lots. This is true in just about every town, village or city.
When do I need to hire an engineer or architect to design my construction project or have my plans stamped?
According to New York State Education Law, Article 147 Section 7307, most commercial construction projects will require plans be stamped by a NYS licensed design professional. When a residential project outside NYC equals or exceeds 1500 sq ft or $20,000 ($10,000 in NYC)], in total materials and labor construction costs, your plans must be reviewed and stamped by a NYS licensed architect or engineer. Reviewed and stamped plans provide a clear understanding of the project and have the added confidence of being properly designed and engineered.
Can I rent my house out to anyone that I want to?

Generally there are few restrictions on renting single family homes. There are restrictions on the actual number of unrelated people that occupy a residence. The Village Code defines a Functional and Factual Family Equivalent as a group of unrelated individuals living together and functioning together as a traditional family. In determining whether or not a group of unrelated individuals comprise a functional and factual family equivalent, the Zoning Board of Appeals may consider the following factors:

  1. Whether the occupants share the entire dwelling unit or act as separate roomers.
  2. Whether the household has stability akin to a permanent family structure. The criteria used to determine this test may include the following:
    1. Length of stay together among the occupants in the current dwelling unit or other dwelling units.
    2. The presence of minor dependent children regularly residing in the household.
    3. The presence of one individual acting as head of the household.
    4. Proof of sharing expenses for food, rent or ownership costs, utilities and other household expenses.
    5. Common ownership of furniture and appliances among the members of the household.
    6. Whether the household is a temporary living arrangement or a framework for transient living.
    7. Whether the composition of the household changes from year to year.
    8. Any other factor reasonably related to whether or not the group of persons is the functional equivalent of a family.
Can I have a business in my home?
A Home Occupation is an occupation or profession of a service character conducted within a dwelling by a member of the residing family, which is clearly secondary to the dwelling use for living purposes and does not change the character thereof or have any exterior evidence of such secondary use. Home occupations are allowed in certain zoning districts in the Village. Please contact the building department at 607-786-2920 for more information.
Can I cut a limb, attached to my neighbor's tree that is hanging over my property?
We cannot give permission for a resident to cut limbs that are hanging over their property from their neighbor’s tree. Property line disputes should be discussed with your legal representative.
Are there laws that say you have to keep your grass mowed?
The owner or occupant of any lot or parcel of land in the Village is required to cut, trim and remove brush, grass or weeds upon all portions of such lot or parcel, including any brush, grass or weeds located between the sidewalk and street boundary, or where no sidewalk is present, between the property line and street boundary, when the height of the grass and/or weeds reaches 10 inches as measured from ground level and at such other time or times as may be necessary and as the Superintendent of Public Works or designee or Code Enforcement Officer may require.

The owner or occupant of any vacant lot or parcel of land two acres or more in the Village shall be and hereby is required to cut, trim and remove brush, grass and weeds upon such lot or parcel when the height of the grass and/or weeds reaches 10 inches as measured from ground level in all areas of said lot or parcel located within 10 feet of any property line.

Notwithstanding the above, the owner or occupant of any vacant lot or parcel of land under two acres located in the Village, 50% of whose gross area is covered by trees, shall be and hereby is required to cut, trim and remove brush, grass and weeds upon such lot or parcel when the height of the grass and/or weeds reaches 10 inches as measured from ground level in all areas of said lot or parcel located within 10 feet of any property line.

What are the rules concerning junk vehicles?

Pursuant to Section 208-3.1 of the Village Code:

  1. No unlicensed, unregistered or inoperative vehicle shall be parked, stored or left in the open in any district of the Village of Johnson City, except as follows:
    1. The vehicle is in a fully enclosed structure.
    2. Vehicle storage permits.
      1. One vehicle may be stored on any parcel of land for a period not to cover such that only the wheels or extreme lower part of the vehicle is exposed. A vehicle storage permit may be obtained from the Village Code Enforcement Officer extending the time such vehicle may remain on the premises for an additional six months. The cost of said permit shall be $10. Only one such extension may be obtained for any one vehicle; or
      2. One vehicle may be located on a parcel of land where the seller of the vehicle resides, for a period not to exceed 30 days if it is for sale, so long as said vehicle is not located on the lawn of the parcel. No more than two such vehicles shall be sold per calendar year. A vehicle storage permit may be obtained from the Village Code Enforcement Officer extending the time such vehicle may remain on the premises for an additional 30 days. The cost of said permit shall be $10. Only two such extensions within a calendar year may be obtained for any one vehicle.
    3. The vehicle is stored or deposited on premises legally used and operated as a junkyard;
    4. The vehicle is temporarily on the premises of a public garage, or automobile repair station awaiting repair or servicing.
  2. For the purposes of this section, the term “vehicle” shall include, but is not limited to, automobiles, trucks, buses, motorcycles, snowmobiles and trailers.
  3. The exceptions listed in Subsection A above shall not be available in a required parking space for a multifamily dwelling as listed in § 274-109 of this Code.

Clerk

Where do I go for a marriage license?
You can go to any town or city office in New York State.
Where do I get my divorce papers?
You can get divorce papers from the county where you got divorced.
What types of payment do you take?
We take cash, checks or credit cards.
Where do I go for proof of residency?
Broome County Office of Management & Budget – 607-778-2162
Where do I go to get a Passport?
You may apply for a new Passport Book or Passport Card at the Broome County Clerk’s office. Passport acceptance hours are from 9:00am to 3:30pm, Monday through Friday (no weekend hours).
Who do I contact for tax information?
Broome County Real Property 607-778-2169.
Where can I get a copy of my tax bill?
Village of Johnson City Tax Bill – To obtain a copy of your Village of Johnson City tax bill contact the Clerk’s Office – 798-7861

Town of Union & Broome County Tax Bill – To obtain a copy of your Town & County tax bill contact the Broome County Real Property Office – 778-2169

School Tax Bill – To obtain a copy of your School tax bill contact the Broome County Real Property Office – 778-2169

Who do I contact concerning my water/sewer/refuse billing or to ask for a final billing?
Contact the Water Department at 607-797-2523
How do I register to Vote?
To register to vote please visit http://www.broomevotes.com/
Can I get a Handicapped Parking permit from the Village Clerk?
Handicapped Parking Permits can be obtained from the Village Clerk. Please visit the Clerk’s section for detailed information.
Where can I get something Notarized?
There are several notaries available at Village Hall during normal business hours.
Do I get my Doing Business As (DBA) License from the Village Clerk?
No. To get your DBA you will need to contact the Broome County Clerk – (607) 778-2255 or (607) 778-2256.
When are Village Board meetings held?

Meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month, (except for the months of June, July & November) at 7:30pm in the Municipal Building, 60 Lester Ave. A work session is held at 5:30pm. Meetings are subject to change from the published schedule due to the Board’s agenda.

When are Planning Board meetings held?

Meetings are held on the 4th Tuesday of the month at 7:30pm in the board room at Village Hall, 60 Lester Ave, with a work session at 7:00pm. Meetings are subject to change from the published schedule due to the Board’s agenda & holidays.

When are Zoning Board of Appeals meetings held?

Meetings are held on the 2nd Monday of the month at 7:30pm at Village Hall, 60 Lester Ave, with a work session at 7:00pm. Meetings are subject to change from the published schedule due to the Board’s agenda.

When are Electrical Board meetings held?
Meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7:00pm in the second floor board room at Village Hall, 243 Main St. This board does not meet during the months of July and August.
When are Plumbing Board meetings held?

Meetings are held on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 6:00pm. Meeting site is determined on a month to month basis as a result of flood damage to the Water Dept. This board does not meet during the months of July and August.

When are Recreation Commission meetings held?

This board meets on an as needed basis.

How do I go about getting permission for a block party?
Requests to close streets for a block party must be approved by the Village Board of Trustees. A written request needs to be submitted to the Board. Please contact the Clerk’s Office for more information. The requester will need to contact the JC DPW & the JC Police to coordinate the closure of the street for the party.

Dog Control

What do I need to license my dog?
If you live in the Town of Union, Village of Johnson City or Village of Endicott you may obtain a dog license by visiting the Town Clerk’s office at 3111 E. Main Street, Endwell or by calling 786-2900. The application shall be accompanied by the license fee and a certificate of rabies vaccination, provided such certificate or affidavit shall not be required if the same is already on file with the Town Clerk. In lieu of the rabies certificate an owner may present a statement certified by a licensed veterinarian stating that he has examined the dog and found that the life of the dog would be endangered by vaccinating due to old age or other reasons. In the case of a spayed or neutered dog, every application shall also be accompanied by a certificate signed by a licensed veterinarian or an affidavit signed by the owner, showing that the dog has been spayed or neutered, provided such certificate or affidavit shall not be required if the same is already on file with the Town Clerk.
What areas are covered by the Town of Union Dog Office?
The Town of Union Dog Control Office covers the entire Town of Union including the Villages of Johnson City and Endicott.
What are the hours for the Dog Control Office?
The Dog Control office is staffed seven days a week as follows – Tuesday and Wednesday 8 am to 4 pm, Monday, Thursday and Friday 8 am to 10 pm, Saturday and Sunday 9 am to 5 pm. The Town Office building is closed on weekends and after 4 pm on weekdays. For After hour’s emergencies, please call 786-2941. After hours emergencies are considered to be an injured dog or a dog bite where the owner of the dog is not known.
My dog is missing, what should I do?
Please call the Dog Control Office at (607) 786-2940 as soon as you know your dog is missing. If we are closed or unavailable, please leave a voicemail message with a description of the dog and how we may contact you. You should also call the Broome County Dog Shelter at 778-2493. Click here for a list of Dog Control Officers in Broome County.
I found a dog, what should I do?
Please call the Dog Control Office at (607) 786-2940. You should not keep the dog. It is unlawful to keep some else’s dog. If the dog is not claimed after 10 days, it may be possible for you to adopt it.
What are the requirements for leashing a dog?
The Town of Union Code requires dogs to be restrained by an adequate collar and leash and accompanied by an owner or a responsible person and under the full control of such owner or person when not on the owners’ property.
What is considered a barking nuisance?
Any dog which engages in loud howling, barking, crying or whining so as to unreasonably annoy any person is considered a public nuisance.
How do I voice a concern about a dog problem?
Please call (607) 786-2940 to speak with the Dog Control office. If closed or unavailable, please leave a brief message including your name and call back phone number.
When should I license my dog?
All dogs four months of age or older that are owned or harbored in the Town of Union must be licensed.
Do you take dogs that are no longer wanted by their owners?
No, please contact the Front Street Dog Shelter at (607) 778-2493 for this service.
If I believe a dog is being mistreated, what should I do?
The Dog Control Officer does not investigate animal cruelty cases. They are handled by the Humane Society which may be contacted at 724-3709.
Do you handle cats or other animal complaints?
Complaints of this nature should be directed to your municipality’s Code Enforcement Office.
Do you have dogs that are adoptable?
Inquires of this nature should be directed to the Broome County Dog Shelter at 778-2493 or the Broome County Humane Society at 724-3709
Do you have a list of Rabies Vaccination Clinics?
The Broome County Health Department lists clinics on their site.

DPW (Streets, Refuse, Sewer & Parks)

Am I supposed to contact someone if I'm going to dig on my property?
You must call Dig Safely New York at 1-800-962-7962 or 811 for a stakeout of utilities 3 full business days prior to digging. There is no cost for this service.
Paint markings and colored flags were placed in front of my home and /or in my yard. What do they mean?
Whenever any excavation work is to be done Dig Safely New York is called to mark out where there are underground facilities such as: water/sewer lines, underground telephone/cable, gas lines and storm sewer lines. This minimizes the likelihood of damaging an underground line and the loss of facilities during excavation. As a homeowner you are also required to call if you are doing any excavating yourself on your property. The number for Dig Safely New York is 1-800-962-7962.
There is a street light out or blinking on my street. Who do I call to have it fixed?
Street lights in the Village are owned by the Town of Union. Call the Town of Union Commissioner of Public Works Office at 607-786-2950 to report a street light that is out or blinking.
One of the traffic lights is out or is not functioning properly. Who should I call to report the problem?
Call the JC DPW at 607-797-3031.
How can I have the sidewalk and/or curb & gutter in front of my house repaired and how much will it cost me?
There are a few options for residents who need their sidewalks, curbs and/or gutters repaired or replaced. Please call the JC DPW at 607-797-3031 for more information.
If I need to do drainage work on my property, what permits or permission is needed?
Pursuant to section to Chapter 136, DRAINAGE AND WATERCOURSES

§ 136-3. Permit required.
It shall be unlawful for any person to stop, fill up, confine, pave, allow obstructions to accumulate or otherwise interfere with or change the course of any drain, ditch, stream or watercourse in the Village of Johnson City without first obtaining from the Superintendent of Public Works or other authorized village official a permit authorizing such work to be performed; and no drain, ditch, stream or watercourse shall be stopped, filled up, confined, paved or otherwise interfered with or the course thereof changed except in strict accordance with the terms and conditions of such permit and the plans and specifications submitted therewith.

§ 136-4. Application.
The application for a permit shall be in form prescribed by the Village of Johnson City and accompanied by plans and specifications prepared by a duly licensed engineer or surveyor. The plans and specifications shall show the exact nature of the work to be performed, the course, structure and capacity of all drains, streams and watercourses, the method of drainage of the adjacent or contiguous territory and any other necessary information and explanatory details required by the Superintendent of Public Works.

§ 136-7. Fees and costs.
A fee of twenty-five dollars ($25.) shall be paid to the village when the application is filed, and the owner shall also pay the actual cost of any material tests and reimburse the village for necessary inspection at the rate of five dollars ($5.) for each hour or portion thereof that a Village Inspector is engaged on the work.

My sewer lateral is plugged. What is the procedure for having it fixed?
The Village owns equipment capable of visually inspecting and cleaning sewer laterals between the building and the main sewer line. If there is a sewer problem in the lateral between the road edge and the sewer main, the Village will clear the lateral. If the problem is located between the building and the road edge, the owner has the option to hire a plumber or allow the Village to clear the lateral for a cost of $80.00. If it is discovered that the sewer lateral is damaged or in need of repair, the responsibility is that of the homeowner.
Where is the Village's right of way located?
This depends on what street you live on. Call the JC DPW Office at 607-797-3031 and Director of Public Services or the Supervisor of Public Works will tell you where the right of way is on your particular street.
Who is responsible for cleaning our sidewalks in the winter?
The property owner is responsible for cleaning their own sidewalks. Failure to remove the snow will result in the Code Enforcement Office citing the owner and may result in a private contractor being hired to clear the sidewalks with the costs being passed on to the property owner.
When can I put my leaves, brush and tree clippings out to be picked up?
Yard waste is collected Village wide on Monday mornings from early spring through late fall. Please call the DPW office for specific start and end dates.

Fire Department

Can I have a bonfire in the Village?

Bonfires shall be permitted only for a publicly-sponsored celebration or event, or for an organization-sponsored event, or for a public or private school-sponsored event, and shall be subject to meeting all requirements of the bonfire permit application obtained from and filed with the Fire Marshal’s office, prior to any bonfire being lit and taking place. No fire shall be ignited prior to an on-site inspection of the location where the bonfire is to take place and shall be subject to any and all conditions or restrictions the Fire Marshal’s office may impose for the safety of life and property, nor shall any fire be ignited prior to the issuance of a bonfire permit issued by the Fire Marshal’s office. The Fire Department shall be notified prior to igniting any said bonfire permitted by the Fire Marshal’s office.

Please be advised that at certain times of the year, Broome County and/or NYS declares a ban on all burning. For more information on these bans please visit the NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

Can I have an outdoor fire to sit around and cook food?

Open burning will be permitted for outdoor cooking when the fire is limited to the minimal size necessary and contained in a device or cooking utensil commonly referred to as a “grill” or “hibachi” and designed for outdoor cooking purposes. All applicable and/or reasonable safety precautions shall be taken when using said devices or utensils.

Note – Open burning for outdoor cooking is prohibited in or on multiple-dwelling structures.

Please be advised that at certain times of the year, Broome County and/or NYS declares a ban on all burning. For more information on these bans please visit the NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

Can I have a fire pit in my backyard?

Recreational fires or campfires. Small recreational fires or campfires shall be permitted only when all of the following are adhered to:

  1. When the fire is contained to a device designed to hold a small fire, such as an outdoor fireplace, or commercially manufactured steel or ceramic portable fireplace, and used according to the manufacturer’s directions.
  2. Said fire is solely for a recreational purpose.
  3. Said fire is placed no closer than 25 feet to any structure.
  4. Said fire is properly attended and controlled at all times by a responsible party with appropriate fire extinguishing equipment readily available.
  5. Said fire shall not present a safety hazard to life or property, nor create a nuisance.

Please be advised that if any recreational fire is deemed a nuisance, for example, the smoke is bothersome to a neighbor, the Fire Department will advise that the fire must be extinguished.

Please be advised that at certain times of the year, Broome County and/or NYS declares a ban on all burning. For more information on these bans please visit the NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

Can I burn my garbage in the Village?
The burning of garbage, refuse and rubbish in any manner is prohibited.

Parks & Recreation

What hours are the parks open?

All parks are open from 9am – sunset.

The carousel and spray park at CFJ Park are open from 12pm – 6pm (weather permitting) on Monday – Fridays and from 12pm – 6pm on Saturdays & Sundays from Memorial Day through the end of June. From the end of June through Labor Day weekend the hours are 12pm – 6pm everyday.

The swimming pool at Floral Avenue Park is open from 12pm – 6pm (weather permitting) on Monday – Fridays and from 12pm – 6pm on Saturdays & Sundays from Memorial Day through the end of June. From the end of June through Labor Day weekend the hours are 12pm – 6pm everyday. Please be advised that this pool is a small wading pool.

Where is the Parks & Recreation Department Office located?

The office is located at Village Hall at 60 Lester Ave.

How do I reserve a pavilion at one of the parks?
n order to reserve a pavilion you will need to complete a Pavilion/Park Property Use Request Form. The parks are reserved on a first come, first served basis. Payment must be received for the reservation to be completed. It is suggested that those looking to reserve a pavilion please call the Parks Office at 797-3031 to make sure your date is available before submitting your form.
How do I reserve one of the playing fields for my sports team?
To reserve a playing field in one of our parks you must submit a completed facility use request form. Please be advised that the fields are reserved for established leagues first. Proof of insurance is required and rental fees may apply.
Are the Village’s Parks smoke free?
Yes, all of the parks in the Village are smoke free. This does include e-cigarettes.
Can I walk/exercise my dog in the parks?
No, animals are not permitted in the Village’s Parks.

Refuse

How many items can I put out for garbage collection?
The limit is 6 items of garbage per dwelling unit. This consists of any combination of items, such as cans, bundles, bags, sofas, mattresses, etc. There is no limit to the amount of recycling that can be put out for collection. Specific rules and regulations can be found under the Refuse Department’s section in addition to the holiday collection schedule.
I own an apartment building/commercial property and would rather put a dumpster on the property instead of having the Village collect the garbage. What do I need to do?
You must write a letter to the Director of Public Services detailing your request. Proof of contracting with a dumpster company in addition to a map showing the location of the dumpster and the type of dumpster enclosure is required. Please note, placing a dumpster on the property will not completely eliminate the refuse charge from the quarterly utility billing.

The fee for garbage collection shall be levied and assessed against and collected from the owner(s) of all parcels identified on the Broome County Tax Map for the Village of Johnson City, provided that if the parcel consists of unimproved land or land principally improved by a residential dwelling or commercial building which had been abandoned and from which the Village water service has been disconnected, there shall be no charge for garbage collection for so long as the parcel remains unimproved or the residential dwelling or commercial structure remains abandoned and disconnected from the Village water liens. In addition, if the parcel is improved by a multiple-residence dwelling or commercial structure and the owner, with the approval of the Superintendent of Public Works, provides private removal of all garbage, refuse, trash, recyclables, yard waste and tires as approved, the fee assessed and levied shall be the minimum residential collection fee.

Can l leave my garbage cans outside of my house?
All garbage and recyclable containers shall be removed from their regular collection points within 24 hours after said garbage has been collected, and no garbage containers shall be placed upon the curb area 24 hours before the due time for the collection of the same. Other than when placed at the curb for collection in accordance with the preceding provision, all rubbish, garbage, and garbage cans and containers shall be kept reasonably out of view from the street or roadway and shall not be stored in the front yard nor on the front porch of any building or structure.

Registrar

Does this office have birth and death records for all of Broome County?
No. The Village of Johnson City only maintains records of births and deaths which have occurred within the Village of Johnson City. For records of births and deaths which have occurred elsewhere in Broome County, please apply directly to the municipality in which the birth or death occurred.
Can I have access to any birth or record?
No. Birth and death records are considered highly confidential, and to protect the identity and safety of those to whom the records belong, there are restrictions on who may obtain these records. For more information on who is legally authorized to obtain a birth or death record, visit the New York State Department of Health website.
Can I look at my sealed birth records?
No. Sealed records are not available.
I am adopted. Where can I go to find information about my birth?
Adoption Information Registry – If you are adopted, or if you placed a child for adoption, or if you are the biological sibling of an adopted person, you may wish to learn more about your birth family. The New York State Health Department’s Adoption Registry can help and even facilitate a reunion. The New York State Department of Health Adoption Information Registry is the only official registry for people born or adopted in New York State. They are the only registry authorized to access sealed information. You are advised not to share your confidential information and documents with outside entities.
Why aren't these records available to the public?
Birth and death records are considered highly confidential, and to protect the identity and safety of those to whom the records belong, there are restrictions on who may obtain these records. For more information on who is legally authorized to obtain a birth or death record, visit the New York State Department of Health website.
How can I correct or amend incorrect information on birth or death records?
If you have questions about correcting or amending vital records you may contact New York State Vital Records by email at vr@health.ny.gov or by telephone, toll-free, at 855-322-1022.

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