A Tool to Help You Navigate the City's Permitting and Construction Requirements
Clean air, pure water, unpolluted land, accessible streets and safe, sound and attractive buildings are among the expectations of the people of Rochester. Residents recognize that development and rehabilitation projects are both necessary and desirable.
To meet these goals, the City encourages and assists prospective developers and enforces environmental, zoning and construction standards. This document describes permits required and review processes most frequently involved with major construction and rehabilitation projects in the City of Rochester. The document is organized by department and agency, with the permits and reviews each administers listed and explained.
Centralized Permit Office
The City has simplified its development review and approval process by creating a Centralized Permit Office located in Room 121B of City Hall. In this one location, a developer may apply for a variety of permits, thus reducing the number of offices to be visited.
Access the Guide
View the City Developer's Guide.