Frequently Asked Questions
How do I obtain a license for my dog?
You may obtain a dog license from the Town Clerk. Every dog, regardless of age, owned or harbored in NYS for longer than 30 days, must be licensed. All dogs four months or older must have proof of a rabies vaccination signed by a licensed veterinarian. If your dog is spayed or neutered, please bring a signed veterinarian’s certificate.
License Fee: $7.00 for spayed/neutered, $15.00 for unspayed
Where do I pay my property tax bill?
Tax bills are mailed at the beginning of the calendar year and in September. Payment can be sent to the Town Clerk or paid in person during regular Clerk’s hours. Sometimes your taxes are paid by a third party such as your mortgage holder.
Taxes must be paid in full when due to prevent penalty fees. The Clerk cannot accept partial payment. A penalty will be added to the amount if not paid when due. Please remember, the Town Clerk/Tax Collector has nothing to do with your property assessment nor your tax levy. Those concerns can be addressed by the Town Assessor. Additional questions can be viewed at the Cattaraugus County Website at https://www.cattco.org
Where do I get a NYS STAR Exemption Application?
If you own property and it is your primary residence, and your income does not exceed $500,000, you are eligible for a STAR school property tax exemption. Additional information is available at: https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/star/ where you can register for the exemption or download a form: https://www.tax.ny.gov/forms/orpts/star.htm
My property tax seems too high – what can I do?
Contact your local assessor first and discuss your concerns. You may review comparable properties and their assessment in your area by reviewing the Interactive County Parcel Map. This may help you determine if your assessment, based on surrounding properties, is justified. Please remember to print the HELP PAGE in order to navigate properly.
If you are still not satisfied, you may file an Assessment Review Challenge with the local Board of Assessment Review. This Board meets annually, usually early in May. Contact your local assessor for specific dates and times for the Board of Assessment Review, along with requesting the necessary forms to file your complaint.
For further information about your assessment policy and procedure, visit the County Real Property Tax Site.
Do I need a building permit?
Yes. They are as follows:
Roof Permits: $25
Fees will be based on the local construction factor
- Up to $2000 – $35.00
- $2001 to $30,000 – $1.00 for each additional $1,000 up to $30,000
- $30,001 to $50,000 – $75.00
- $50,001 to $100,000 – $100.00
- $100,001 to $200,000 – $125.00
- $200,001 and up – $150.00
Other:
- All inspections required for mobile home installation – $50.00
- Installation of swimming pools – $35.00
- Installation of wood stoves or similar units – $35.00
- Chimney inspections (fire related or new construction) – $35.00
- 911 sign placement fee – $50.00
- Demolition permit – $25.00
- Disability/wheelchair ramp (refundable upon satisfactory completion) – $25.00