Code Enforcement FAQ's Q: I live out in the country, can I burn my garbage? A: According to the new DEC Regulations, no one can burn household garbage no matter where you live. Please click here to read the regulation. Q: Do I need a permit to put up a fence or a swimming pool? A: You do not need Building Permit to put up a fence, however it is recommended that you allow enough room to maintain the fence and yard between property lines. A swimming pool that is less than 24" in height does not require a Building Permit. Q: What do I do when my construction project is finished? A: Please call the Code Enforcement Office at 947-6245 to schedule a Final Inspection. Q: I want to build or purchase a small storage shed, what is required? A: Storage sheds under 144 sq. ft. in area do not require a Building Permit, however small sheds must still be placed according to the required setbacks (see Town of Sterling Zoning Law).    Storage sheds greater than 144 sq. ft. require an approved Building Permit. As a minimum, provide construction plans and placement details; refer to the Building Permit Application for a full list of requirements. Q: My neighbor has a bunch of old cars and junk in his yard, what can I do? I don't want him to know that it was me who complained. A: The Code Enforcement Office investigates all written complaints and sends the appropriate violation letters to the offending property owner. The complaint is completely anonymous, your name will not be included on any paperwork. To fill out a complaint form, either visit the Code Enforcement Office or print a complaint form from the website, complete and mail to the CEO. Q: I want to replace my old mobile home with a newer one, is there a minimum age requirement? A: Yes, the Town of Sterling Mobile Home Law states that no mobile home older than 8 years from date of manufacture can be brought into the Town of Sterling. Q: I'm having vinyl siding and new windows installed, do I need to get a Building Permit? A: Yes and your contractor must provide proof of Workers Compensation Insurance per NYS Law. Assessment FAQ's Q:I heard that the Governor did away with the STAR Program, is that true? A: No, however the Middle Class STAR Rebate program was eliminated. This was the program that sent everyone who had basic or enhanced STAR a rebate check. Q: When does my (e.g., Agricultural, Veteran's, Senior Citizen's, STAR, Disability) exemption form need to be submitted? A: The exemption filing deadline is March 1st of each year. This means that the Town of Sterling Assessment Office must RECEIVE the completed form and any required supporting information by March 1st. Q: I submitted my exemption form not long after March 1st. Why didn't I get the exemption on my subsequent school tax bill or my town and county tax bill? A: If there is no problem with your application and/or eligibility, you should see the exemption the following year. For example: Exemption form submitted on or before 3/1/2009 Impacts 2009 School tax bill Impacts 2010 Town & County tax bill Exemption form submitted after 3/01/2009 (ie 3/20/2009) Impacts 2010 School tax bill Impacts 2011 Town & County tax bill Q: When is grievance day? A: Grievance Day is always the 4th Tuesday in May for the Town of Sterling. The hours can change from year to year depending on the availability of the Board of Assessment Review members. IF YOU PLAN ON GRIEVING WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO CONTACT THE ASSESSMENT OFFICE BY PHONE TO CONFIRM THE HOURS FOR GRIEVANCE DAY. Q: Why did the assessor raise my taxes? A: The assessor cannot and does not raise or lower your taxes. The assessor can only assess the value of your home. Taxes are impacted by the Village, Town, County and School budgets. If you feel your taxes are too high, you should be speaking with your village board members, your town board members, your county legislature and your school board members.

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