Application Form

Download the Operating Permit Application (PDF).

About Operating Permits

The City of Cortland has begun the enforcement of Operating Permits. According to the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code and the Code of the City of Cortland, Operating Permits are required for the following:

• Buildings or structures containing one or more areas of public assembly with an occupant load of 100 persons or more
• Buildings whose use or occupancy classification may pose a substantial potential hazard to public safety as determined by Council
• Conducting a hazardous process or activity, including but not limited to, any commercial or industrial operation which produces combustible dust as a byproduct, fruit and crop ripening, and waste handling
• Manufacturing, storing or handling hazardous materials in quantities exceeding those listed in Tables 2703.1.1 (1), 2703.1.1 (2), 2703.1.1 (3) or 2703.1.1 (4), of the Fire Code of New York State (see 19 NYCRR Part 1225) which is available on New York State's Division of Building Standards and Codes Website.
• Temporary or permanent installation of LP gas storage containers, indoors or outdoors, exceeding 24 pounds water capacity (10.8 kilograms)
• Use of pyrotechnic devices (indoor or outdoor) within the City limits

The City will require that any person who proposes to undertake an activity or operate any type of building listed above shall be required to obtain an operating permit.

An application is required to be submitted, an inspection of the premises will then be scheduled and a fee of $50 will be charged for the Operating Permit. An Operating Permit will be valid for one year.