Can I use the assessment of my neighbors' properties to prove that my assessment is wrong?

No.  In order to 'Grieve' your assessment, you must provide proof of the value of your property. You cannot make the assumption that your neighbors' assessments are correct.  They may not be correct.  The best proof of value of your property is a recent appraisal.  In lieu of a recent appraisal, you need to research recent comparable sales of like properties in your area. The Assessor's Office provides sales books for your convenience.

What is the last day to file for a Basic STAR exemption?

The last day to file for a Basic STAR exemption is March 1 of each year.

Do I need to be licensed to perform construction work in the Town of Vestal?

Yes, and annual Operating Permit is required.  Registration of any and all "business entity engaged in the construction, repair, remodel or alteration of buildings or any system or component which is a part thereof..." is now a requirement in the town.  A personal appearance is required at our offices, (133 Front St) to fill out paperwork and receive information.  Please call for an appointment. 

Where are your offices located?

Our offices are located at 133 Front Street.  

Why do I need a permit?

Permits are required to be sure that installations of equipment and construction work is performed in compliance with the required Codes. Our primary goal is to have a safe community for people to live, work and play in and this is one part of accomplishing that goal. Also, the Town is required by New York State to enforce codes which require permits to be issued, inspections to be performed and finalized.

Do I need to get a building permit?

Today, virtually every construction project requires the issuance of a building permit. Commercial and residential new construction, alterations, additions, and remodeling, fireplaces, gas inserts and pellet stoves all are governed by the Codes and do require the issuance of building permits.

What inspections are required for my building project?

Please see the Required Construction Inspection Listing.

How do I apply for a building permit?

You can download the appropriate forms from this website, or stop into our office and pickup the appropriate forms.  Follow the instructions and then turn in all the completed information.

How long does the building permit application process take?

From the time your completed application, complete plans, and fee are submitted to our office, the building permit/plan review period is between 2 to 4 weeks. Our plan review process is detailed. Please plan accordingly.

How much advance notice does your office require for a required inspection?

Our inspectors require a 2 business day notice for any required inspection. Voice mail requests are not accepted and do not guarantee an inspector is available for your request.

Who is responsible to call for the required inspections?

The applicant of record for the permit is required to call for inspections. This individual may be the homeowner, contractor, architect/engineer, or some other designated person. It is that individual's responsibility to insure that all required inspections are called for, carried out, and all corrections made and re-inspected.

Where do I find information relating to the New York State Building Codes?

You may contact your local Building/Code Enforcement office, various websites offered in our Links section, our local library currently has a set of codes, or they may be ordered from sites in our Links section.

Will my construction project raise my taxes?

The Building Department is not involved with the assessment for your property. Please contact your local tax assessor for this information.

How do I find information on sub-dividing or creating a new parcel of land?

Please contact our office for information and requirements for sub-division, increasing, decreasing or creating new parcels. Property may only be altered or created in compliance with the Code.

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.

What is a zoning variance? How do I apply for a variance?

A zoning variance is a decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals allowing the construction or use of a building or parcel of land in a way contrary to the Code of the Town of Vestal.  For example, allowing a house to be constructed closer to the property line than the Code directs. The application information for a zoning variance may be downloaded from this website.

What type of zoning district is my property located in? What are the regulations/ordinances which apply to my district?

The zoning map approved by the Town Board details the various zoning districts. Please contact our office for the zoning district of your parcel. The zoning district regulations/ordinances may be downloaded from this website.

Who is responsible for cleaning our sidewalks in the winter?

According to the Code of the Town of Vestal, Chapter 20, Article I, Section 20-2, "All snow, ice and other obstructions upon any public sidewalk in the town, shall be removed by the owner or occupant of the adjoining land immediately after such snow, ice or other obstruction is deposited thereon."  For complete information, please contact the code enforcement department.

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 Town Code states that not more than 5 unrelated adults living and cooking together as a single housekeeping unit are allowed. The building cannot be internally "subdivided" and remodeled to create dwelling units unless building permits are applied for and issued legally.

Can I have a business in my home?

The term that is used in the Town of Vestal for in-home businesses is "Customary Home Occupation". These are only permitted in RA-2 and R-R zoning districts and are strictly regulated. This information can be downloaded from this website.

Are mobile homes permitted in Vestal?

Yes. They are permitted in mobile home parks or as permitted by the Zoning Board of Appeals for an existing non-conforming mobile home. Contact us for the details.

Can l leave my garbage cans outside of my house?

Currently there are no restrictions on the placement or storage of garbage cans.

Can I cut a limb, attached to my neighbor's tree, that is hanging over my property?

Property line disputes such as this are not in the realm of the Vestal Code Enforcement office. We recommend that you discuss this with a legal representative.

Are there laws that say you have to keep your grass mowed?

Yes, there is a requirement that is contained in the Property Maintenance Code of New York. The maximum height is 10 inches.

Can I have an outdoor fire to sit around and roast marshmallows?

Yes, recreational fires like this are permitted under certain conditions. Contact the Fire Marshal or Fire Code Inspector for that information.

What is the definition of a junk vehicle?

A junk vehicle is a vehicle that is not immediately ready to be legally driven on a road. Proper inspection, license and insurances are all required to be in place and current.

Can I stop in and look over the laws, codes and permit requirements?

Of course!  We encourage people to learn more about our department and the resources that are available. Come see us.

Can I do Genealogical research at your office?

 While all vital records are on file in the Town Clerk's office, our Town Historian assists with genealogical research. She can be reached at her office which is located at the Vestal Public Library. (607) 754-4243. Ask for Margaret Hadsell.

How do I go about getting permission for a block party?

One of the residents of the street has to pass a petition obtaining signatures from 90% of the neighbors in favor of the party. This petition has to be presented to the Town Board. At a regularly scheduled meeting, the Board will approve/deny the request. If the request is approved, the Police Department, Fire Department and Emergency Squad has to be notified.

When are Town Board meetings held?

The Town of Vestal Town Board holds work sessions every Monday evening at 6:00 PM. Regular Town Board meetings are held the first Wednesday of each month at 4:30 PM and the second and fourth Wednesday evening at 7:30 PM. All of these meetings are open to the public. The Town Board committees do not hold regularly scheduled meetings.

Do I get my doing business as license from the Town Clerk?

No. A Doing Business As (DBA) is obtained at the County Clerks Office. If the business will be conducted in the Town of Vestal, you might want to check with our Code Department to see if there are any restrictions or permits needed. They can be reached at (607) 748-1514 Ext 312.

Where can I get something Notarized?

The majority of the staff in my office are notaries. There are other notaries in the Town Hall as well. That means, you can always find a Notary at the Town Hall. There is no charge for this service.

Can I get a Handicapped Parking permit from the Town Clerk?

Yes.  Handicapped permits are issued to Town residents only.  We have application forms in our office or we can mail one to you. You need to complete the top portion of this form and your doctor will complete the bottom portion. When the form is completed, we issue the permit immediately.

How do I register to Vote?

Both Mail-In New York State Voter Registration forms and Absentee Ballot Applications are available through our office. If you are l8 years old or older, you may register to vote. If you move, even if it is next door, or if your name has changed, you will need to register. The County Board of Elections sends cards to each registered voter stating that they are registered and where their polling place is. If you have any questions about voting or have registered and not received that card you need to contact the County Board of Elections at (607) 778-2172 or 778-2249. 

What do I need to license my dog?

New York State requires all dogs to be licensed at 4 months of age. A current rabies vacation certificate and spay/neuter certificate (if applicable) are required. A spaying or neutering certificate is required for the first license after the procedure is done. From that time on, that information will be printed on the renewal license. The license is good for one year from the time of purchase. Renewal licenses are automatically sent to you by New York State. If you do not get this renewal or forget to renew the license, the Dog Control Officer will send you a reminder. The license of a spayed or neutered dog is $12.50 and an unspade or unneutered dog is $20.50. The license can be obtained by either coming into our office or sending the information and check by mail.

What does someone have to do to get a Marriage License?

You have the hardest part of this task behind you because you have found someone who has said yes. You may purchase your license from any Town or City Clerk in the State of New York. The license cost is $40.00 (check or cash), is good for 60 days and has a 24 hour waiting period from the time of issue. If there have been previous marriages by either of you, you are required to bring divorce, annulment papers and/or death certificates from all previous marriages. Both of you have to come into our office. If it is inconvenient for you to come together, you may come separately - but you both must appear before the Clerk and sign the license. Picture ID is required for which your driver license can be used and your birth certificate, passport or baptismal record is acceptable for proof of age.  --- THERE IS NO BLOOD TEST ---

What's the town's budget for 2008?

The 2008 Town budget is 22.4 million dollars.

My dog is missing, what should I do?

Call Dog Control as soon as you know your dog is missing.  If we are closed, leave a voicemail with a description of the dog and how we can contact you.  Vestal Dog Control Phone number: (607) 748-1514 ext 319.  For a list of DCO's in Broome County go to this site http://www.gobroomecounty.com/community/BCDogControlOfficers.pdf

How do I voice a concern about a dog problem?

Call (607) 748-1514 ext: 319 to speak with the Dog Control office.  If closed, follow the instructions given.

When should I license my dog?

All dogs four months of age or older that are owned or harbored in the Town of Vestal must be licensed.

How do I license a dog?

If you live in Vestal you may obtain a dog license by filling out this form License letter and bring it or mail it to the Clerk's office.

Do you take dogs that are no longer wanted by their owners?

No, you can contact the Front Street Dog Shelter at (607) 778-2493 for this service.

Do you handle cats or other animal complaints?

No we don't.

Do you have dogs that are adoptable?

Yes. Visit http://www.petfinder.com

Do you have a list of Rabies Vaccination Clinics?

The Broome County Health Department lists clinics on the following site: http://www.gobroomecounty.com/hd/HaSRabiesClinics.php.

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.

My sewer lateral is failing or plugged. What is the procedure for having it fixed?

As a homeowner you must hire a contractor to repair your sewer lateral. If the problem is between the property line and the main in the road the Town may reimburse you for a portion of the replacement cost. Please call the Sewer Department to prearrange the Town's share of the cost.

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). Depending on what flood zone you are in you may be required to have flood insurance on your home along with regular homeowners insurance. Call the Engineering or Code Department to have your property reviewed.

How can I have the curb/gutter in front of my house repaired and how much will it cost me?

The Town Highway Department replaces curb/gutter without any charge to the homeowner.  After you call the Highway Department you will be placed on a list. The curbs are done in the order in which they are called in.

How can I have the sidewalk in front of my house repaired and how much will it cost me?

The Town of Vestal participates in a 50/50 sidewalk replacement program where the homeowner pays half of the cost along with the Town. A representative of the Engineering Department will take measurements and draw up a contract for the homeowners to sign, then the Highway Department will replace the sidewalks time and weather permitting.

One of the traffic lights is out or is not functioning properly. Who should I call to report the problem?

The Town of Vestal is responsible for the maintenance of 6 traffic lights within the Town:

1. Main St. at Stage Rd.
2. Main St. at Vestal Rd.
3. Vestal Rd. at African Rd.
4. Vestal Rd. at Sycamore Rd.
5. Vestal Rd. at Commerce Rd.
6. Vestal Rd. at Campus Plaza.

All others are the responsibility of the NYSDOT. If you feel there is an operational problem with any of the 6 lights listed above, please feel free to contact the Engineering or Police Departments.

There is a street light out or blinking on my street. Who do I call to have it fixed?

Call the Engineering Department and we'll take care of contacting NYSEG. Please have a location available though with a street and house number that the light is close to. If there is no house number available the numbers on the pole will work as well. Please specify the problem with the light also which are normally, the light is out or the light blinks on and off.

When can I put my brush and tree clippings out to be picked up?

Our brush pickup starts in April and continues to the end of June. We stop our pickups for the months of July and August so we can catch up on the road work the needs to be done. We start again in September and go until we have to switch our machinery over to pickup leaves.

Please place all brush at the curb (not in the road) with the cut ends facing the road. No vines (they plug our chippers) No thorns, we recycle our wood chips to residents of Vestal, they often use them in play areas for children.

When is leaf pickup in the Town?

Our leaf pickup starts at the beginning of October and continues until they are all picked up or there is too much snow to find them. Simply rake your leaves to the road side and our crews will be around to pick them up as soon as possible. Please, no sticks or any other foreign objects. It slows or presses and can beak down our machines.

Why isn't my street plowed yet?

The snow plow crews have routes that begin from the highway garage to each neighborhood. Your street will be plowed according to where you are on the route. The main roads are done on a priority basis.

When will my street be resurfaced?

Roads are evaluated and prioritized on a yearly basis.

Where is the Town's right of way located?

This depends on what street you live on. Call the Highway Department and the Superintendent or the Deputy will tell you where the right of way is on your particular street.

In what year was Vestal's first football stadium dedicated?

The first stadium, Veteran's Memorial field, was dedicated to the Veterans who served in World War II on Friday, October 5, 1951.

How did Powderhouse Road get it's name?

Powderhouse Road is named for the brick powder houses, used to store black powder, that were built into the hillside near the intersection with Jutland Road.  The road was formerly known as the Vestal Center- Binghamton Road and Sugar Creek Road.

How did African Road get its name?

Originally called Hotaling Road, African Road was named for the African American families who owned farms at the top of the hill.

When was Vestal established?

The area South of the Susquehanna River, known today as Vestal, was formed from the Town of Union in 1823. 

How did Vestal get its name?

Where is the Information Technology Department (I.T. Dept) located?

I.T. Dept is located at 601 Vestal Parkway West, Vestal, New York 13850. Click Here for link

What is a phishing filter?

A phishing filter is usually a component of a Web browser or Internet toolbar. It evaluates Web sites for signs that they are connected with phishing scams.

Phishing scams use e-mail and Web sites that look identical to those that belong to legitimate sources (such as financial or government institutions) but are actually hoaxes. If you click links in the e-mail or enter your user name, password, and other data into these Web sites, it gives scammers information they can use to defraud you or to steal your identity.

The Microsoft Phishing Filter is available today in Windows Internet Explorer 7 for Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2), and in Windows Vista. To learn more, see Phishing Filter: Help protect yourself from online scams.

Read more about the signs of phishing scams in Recognize phishing scams and fraudulent e-mail.

What is a spam filter?

Spam filters (sometimes broadly referred to as "e-mail filters") evaluate incoming e-mail messages to determine if they contain elements that are commonly associated with unwanted or dangerous bulk mailing.

If the filter determines that an e-mail message is suspicious, the message usually goes to a designated folder, and links and other code in it are disabled. Then you can evaluate the message more safely at your convenience.

Read more about how to keep spam out of your inbox.

What is antispyware software?

Antispyware software helps detect and remove spyware from your computer. "Spyware" (also known as "adware") generally refers to software that is designed to monitor your activities on your computer.

Spyware can produce unwanted pop-up advertising, collect personal information about you, or change the configuration of your computer to the spyware designer's specifications. At its worst, spyware can enable criminals to disable your computer and steal your identity.

Antispyware software is an important tool to help you keep your computer running properly and free from intrusion. 

Read more about spyware.

Do I need both a firewall and antivirus software?

Yes. A firewall helps stop hackers and viruses before they reach your computer, while antivirus software helps get rid of known viruses if they manage to bypass the firewall or if they've already infected your computer.

One way viruses get past a firewall is when you ignore its warning messages when you download software from the Internet or e-mail.

Read more about how to help protect your computer against viruses.

What is antivirus software?

Antivirus software helps protect your computer against specific viruses and related malicious software, such as worms and trojans. Antivirus software must be kept up to date. Updates are generally available through a subscription from your antivirus vendor.

It is important to have both antivirus software and a firewall turned on before you connect to the Internet. Read more about viruses.

What is a firewall?

A firewall helps make your computer invisible to online attackers and blocks some malicious software such as viruses, worms, and trojans. A firewall can also help prevent software on your computer from accessing the Internet to accept updates and modification without your permission.

Firewalls come in both software and hardware form, but hardware firewalls are intended for use in addition to a software firewall.

Windows Vista and Windows XP both include a firewall. To learn more, read Understanding Windows Firewall.

It is important to have both a firewall and antivirus software turned on before you connect to the Internet. Read more about firewalls.

Can I use my Broome County Public Library card here?

No.  You need to get a Four County card.

I received a speeding ticket. What do I do next?

Once a ticket is issued, it is the responsibility of the Vestal Town Court.  They can be reached at 607-748-1514 if you have any questions.

What should I do if I'm pulled over by a police officer?

According to New York State Law, you must comply with a police vehicle and pull over when the emergency lights have been activated.  Keep in mind that safety, both yours and the officers, are of prime importance.  As soon as you see the emergency lights, turn on your turn signal to let the officer know that you are preparing to pull over.  You should pull as far to the right shoulder of the roadway as possible.  You should have your drivers license, vehicle registration, and insurance card available for the officer.  It is a good idea to turn your vehicles's interior lights on at night.  It is also recommended that you keep your hands visible to the officer by placing them on the steering wheel.  Following these simple tips will insure that both you and the officer will be safe and that the stop will be as brief as possible.

Can I give information regarding a crime anonymously?

Anyone who wants to discuss confidential information or who would rather leave anonymous tips may call the Detective Division at 607-754-2477 ext. 347.  Because you may be forwarded to the voice mail system, information that is of an emergency nature should be passed on by calling 607-754-2111 for an immediate response.

How can I get a copy of a police report?

The Vestal Police Department is governed by the Freedom of Information Law (New York State Public Officers Law, sections 84-90) as far as releasing records that are requested.  In most cases a Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) request must be submitted to the Vestal Town Clerk and it is then forwarded to the appropriate Town department for review.  You will be notified within five business days regarding your request.  There is a $.25 per page charge to offset copying costs.

Are there any special parking restrictions during winter months?

There is no on-street parking anywhere within the Town between the hours of 2:00 AM and 6:00 AM from December 1st through March 31st.

Can the Vestal Police Department fingerprint me for an employment license?

If you either reside or work in the Town of Vestal, you can schedule an appointment to be fingerprinted by the police department?  There is a $25.00 fee that must be paid to the Town Clerk's office prior to being fingerprinted.  You can schedule an appointment for fingerprinting by calling 607-754-2111.  You must bring the completed fingerprint card with you to the appointment as we do not provide them.

How do I get a copy of an accident report?

When the officer has completed the accident investigation, a copy of the report may be obtained during normal business hours (Monday - Friday; 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM) at the Vestal Police station located at 605 Vestal Parkway West.  It is recommended that you call ahead so the report will be ready when you come to pick it up.  The records department number is 607-754-2386.

What should I do if I'm involved in a motor vehicle accident?

Under New York State Law, anyone who is operating a motor vehicle that is involved in an accident where someone else's property has been damaged or someone has been injured, must stop and provide the property owner their drivers license and insurance information including his or her home address.  If the owner of the property is not available at the time, the driver must report the incident to the nearest police station as soon as physically able.

Can the Vestal Police Department issue me a pistol permit?

No.  The Broome County Sheriff's Department oversees all pistol permits in the county.  The pistol permit bureau can be reached at 607-778-2113.

How do I apply for a position in the Vestal Police Department?

Anyone interested in working in law enforcement should contact Broome County to learn when exams will be given.  The Personnel Office can be reached at 607-778-2185.

Where is the Recreation Department Office located?

The office is located at 516 Front Street which parallels Route 434.  The office, a small white house on the north side of Front Street, shares the building with the Assessor and Tax Collector. 

Are there any employment opportunities in the Recreation Department?

Seasonal help is needed, especially in the summer.  Playground Instructors, Sports Camp Instructors, and Lifeguards/Swimming Instructors are hired annually.  Applications are available on January 2nd and must be submitted by April 15 to be guaranteed an interview.  Vestal residents are given priority. 

How do I register for programs?

A registration form must be completed and submitted with the program fee.  You can mail in the form and fee, bring it to the office during regular hours, drop it in the mail slot of the office door after hours. The form is available in PDF format in the Registration section. 

How can I pay for programs?

Program fees can be paid in cash, by check or money order made out to the Town of Vestal.  Credit cards are not accepted. 

What defines a Town of Vestal resident?

Town of Vestal residents differ from Vestal School residents.  Anyone who pays their town tax bill to the Town of Vestal or owns property in the Town of Vestal is considered a resident.  Because Town of Vestal tax dollars fund the recreation programs, town residents receive priority.  Non-residents pay an additional $5.00 fee per program.

How do I reserve a shelter at Arnold Park?

Reservations are taken through the Recreation Department at 754-3368.  There are four picnic shelters.  Rental on Monday through Friday is $10.00; the rental for Saturday or Sunday is $35.00.  Alcohol is prohibited.

What are the hours of the Recreation Department?

The Receation Department is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.  Occasionally we are all out of the office preparing for a program.  Please call ahead if you must speak with someone.

Do you have small claims night court?

Small claims court is held during regular Town Hall hours only.

How do I know if I must file an application with the Zoning Board of Appeals?

When an applicant applies for a building permit through the Building/Zoning Office, the building/zoning inspector will determine whether or not a project will require approval by the ZBA.