Opening Your Business in Erwin, NY

Opening Your Business in Erwin, NY Thank you for your interest in opening a business and investing in the Town of Erwin. The Department of Planning and Economic Development looks forward to helping you be successful which includes complying with applicable rules and regulations. We understand that there are a lot of logistics that go into opening and operating a business. Here are a few tips to help you: Find A Location Zoned for Your Business The Town of Erwin's Zoning Code, Zoning Map, Building Permit Forms, and Use Regulation Table are available on our website at under the "Directories" tab and "Code Enforcement" page on the bottom of the right hand directory. The Code Enforcement Office is also happy to confirm whether your proposed use is allowed by zoning. We recommend that you do not sign a lease or enter into a purchase contract until you have checked to make sure that the property can be used for your type of business. Seek Professional Design Assistance Navigating the requirements of the NYS Building and Energy Code can be complicated. A design professional, for example a licensed architect and/or engineer, should be engaged to create the necessary plans you will need to obtain permits and complete your project. It may be advisable to engage these services before signing a lease or entering into a purchase contract for the property. Obtaining this assistance at the beginning of the project is crucial to helping you determine the scope of work and the investment needed to achieve compliance. Obtain Necessary Permits and Approvals Whether you are opening a business in an existing location, changing the use or occupancy of a building or making physical changes to a property, you are most likely going to need a permit. Permits are proof that your building and facilities follow all required codes and that they are safe for you, your employees, and your customers. Code Enforcement is happy to advise you as to what permits and other zoning approvals you will need, however having detailed plans completed by a design professional will make them better able to assist you. Business and site signage also require the submission of a Sign Permit Application. Develop a Realistic Schedule It is important to set realistic expectations regarding the time it will take to get your business up and running. If you are planning to make renovations, change the use of a property, or conduct other activities that require licenses or permits (for example, serving alcohol and food), you should build those timeframes into your project schedule. Understanding the requirements and timeframes upfront will help you develop a realistic schedule and minimize surprises. Know Who to Contact with Questions and Assistance Regulatory Contacts: Town of Erwin, Code Enforcement, (607) 936-4646 - Answers questions concerning zoning, occupancy requirements, building permit and sign permit requirements. Code Enforcement also perform inspections of properties and work completed as part of the Building Permit process. Town of Erwin Water Treatment, (607) 962-3483 - Issues sewer and water permits. New York State Department of Health Hornell District Office, (607) 324-8371 / (607) 324-5121 - Enforces regulations that protect the public's health, safety and environment related to food, water, and indoor air quality. IncubatorWorks, (607) 962-6387 - Provides business assistance and services geared towards entrepreneurs. REDEC, (607) 962-3021 - The Southern Tier's primary revolving loan fund for start-up and expanding businesses. Steuben County IDA, (607) 776-3316 - Provides financial incentives for larger projects and business expansions. Corning Area Chamber of Commerce, (607) 936-4686 - Provides marketing, educational programming, networking opportunities, and advocacy for members.