Glossary of Common Permitting Terms Every Hamptons Homeowner Should Know

Clear Definitions to Help You Understand the Language of Building and Zoning on Long Island

If you're planning to build, renovate, or upgrade your property in the Hamptons, you're going to hear a lot of unfamiliar terms. From zoning codes to site plans to certificates of occupancy, the permitting process is filled with language that can be confusing for homeowners and even first-time builders.

At Land Planning Services, we believe that understanding the terminology is the first step to making informed decisions. This glossary explains the most common permitting terms used in towns like East Hampton, Southampton, Shelter Island, and other parts of Suffolk County. Use it as a reference any time you come across something unclear in your paperwork or conversations with officials.

Accessory Structure

A secondary building on your property that is separate from the main house. Common examples include garages, sheds, pool houses, and guest cottages. These structures are subject to their own set of zoning rules, including setback requirements and lot coverage limits.

As Built Plan

A drawing that shows what was actually built on the property, including changes made during construction. These are often required at the end of a project to confirm that everything matches the approved plans.

Building Permit

Official permission from the town to begin construction or renovation. A building permit confirms that your plans comply with local zoning and safety codes. You must have an active building permit before starting any work.

Certificate of Occupancy

A legal document issued by the building department once a project has been completed and all inspections have passed. It certifies that a structure is safe and approved for use or occupancy. Also referred to as a CO.

Certificate of Compliance

Similar to a certificate of occupancy, this document is issued for projects that do not involve new living space. It is used for additions, accessory structures, or other work that does not create a new dwelling unit.

Environmental Overlay

A special zone applied to areas with environmental sensitivity, such as wetlands, dunes, or wildlife habitats. These areas are subject to additional regulations and may require separate approvals before any construction can occur.

Health Department Approval

When building or renovating a home that uses a septic system, you need approval from the Suffolk County Department of Health Services. This ensures your septic system is adequate for the size and use of the home.

Lot Coverage

The percentage of your lot that is occupied by buildings and other impervious surfaces like patios, pools, and driveways. Each zoning district has a maximum lot coverage limit that must not be exceeded.

Natural Resources Special Permit

A special approval required when your property is located in or near environmentally protected areas, such as wetlands or coastal erosion zones. This permit is reviewed by the Natural Resources Department or similar authority within your town.

Nonconforming Lot

A property that does not meet current zoning requirements, often because it was created before the zoning code changed. These lots may still be buildable, but often require variances or special approvals.

Planning Board

A local board that reviews subdivision applications, site plans, and certain large or environmentally sensitive projects. You may need to appear before the Planning Board if your project involves dividing land or developing in a conservation area.

Setback

The minimum distance a structure must be located from a property line. Setbacks apply to the front, rear, and sides of your property and are enforced to ensure space between neighboring structures.

Site Plan

A detailed drawing showing existing and proposed conditions on your property. This includes buildings, driveways, pools, patios, fences, landscaping, drainage, and more. Most permit applications require a site plan prepared by a licensed professional.

Stop Work Order

An official notice from the town that halts all construction activity on your property. This is typically issued when work is being done without a permit or when a serious violation is found. Failing to comply can result in fines and legal action.

Variance

A special approval granted by the Zoning Board of Appeals that allows a project to deviate from the zoning code. Common reasons for requesting a variance include exceeding lot coverage, building into a setback, or constructing on a nonconforming lot.

Wetlands Permit

Permission required to build or make changes near tidal or freshwater wetlands. These permits are reviewed by the town and may also require input from the state Department of Environmental Conservation.

Zoning Board of Appeals

A local board that hears applications for variances, use exceptions, and certain appeals. If your project does not meet the zoning requirements, you may need to present your case to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Zoning Determination

An official review of your property’s zoning by the building department. A zoning determination outlines what you can legally build on your lot, what permits are required, and whether variances or other approvals may be needed.

Ready to Navigate the Permitting Process with Confidence?

At Land Planning Services, we help property owners make sense of zoning language and approval requirements every day. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a seasoned builder, our team is here to translate regulations into action steps and help you get the green light to move forward.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us handle the process from A to Z.