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How Do I… Apply / Request

The Village of Saranac Lake provides applications, permits, and request forms for a variety of municipal services, projects, events, and community programs.

Use the information below to access commonly requested forms and learn more about application requirements, and review processes.

If you need assistance or are unsure which application is required, please contact the Village Office before submitting materials.

Need Assistance?

If you are unsure which application or permit is required, please contact the Village Offices for assistance.

Village of Saranac Lake

39 Main Street
Saranac Lake, NY 12983

Phone: (518) 891-4150

Office Hours:
Monday – Friday
7:30 AM – 4 PM

Building Permit

Building permits are required for many types of construction, renovation, demolition, and property improvement projects within the Village of Saranac Lake.

Permits help ensure projects comply with:

  • New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code
  • Local zoning regulations
  • Safety requirements
  • Applicable permitting standards

Building Permits May Be Required For:

  • New construction
  • Additions and renovations
  • Structural repairs
  • Roofing
  • Decks and accessory structures
  • Electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work
  • Demolition projects

Building Permit

Temporary Sign Permit

A Temporary Sign Permit may be required for temporary signs, banners, promotional displays, or event signage located within the Village of Saranac Lake.

Temporary Signs May Include:

  • Event signs
  • Promotional signs
  • Grand opening signage
  • Temporary business advertising

Applications may require:

  • Sign dimensions
  • Proposed location
  • Display dates
  • Applicant contact information
  • Property owner authorization, if applicable

Temporary Sign Permit

Park Use Permit

A Park Use Permit may be required for organized activities, special events, gatherings, or reserved use of Village parks and public spaces.

The permit process helps coordinate:

  • Scheduling and availability
  • Public safety considerations
  • Facility usage
  • Traffic and parking impacts
  • Event logistics and operations

Applications May Include:

  • Event description
  • Estimated attendance
  • Site layout information
  • Insurance documentation
  • Equipment or vendor information
  • Requested dates and times

Park Use Form

FOIL Request

The Village of Saranac Lake processes requests for public records in accordance with the New York State Freedom of Information Law (FOIL).

FOIL provides the public with access to government records while protecting records that are exempt under state law.

Requests should clearly describe the records being requested, including:

  • Dates, if known
  • Subject matter
  • Department involved
  • Specific records requested

Important Information

  • Certain records may be exempt from disclosure under New York State law
  • Fees may apply for copies or large requests
  • Response timelines are governed by FOIL requirements
  • Requests may be submitted electronically, by mail, or in person

Questions regarding FOIL requests may be directed to the Village Clerk’s Office.

FOIL Request Form

Request Funding

Organizations, nonprofits, community groups, agencies, and eligible applicants may submit requests for Village funding consideration through designated funding programs or application processes.

Funding requests help support projects and initiatives that provide a public benefit to the Saranac Lake community.

Funding Requests May Include:

  • Community events
  • Public programming
  • Beautification projects
  • Youth initiatives
  • Arts and culture programming
  • Economic development activities
  • Public service initiatives

Applications May Require:

  • Project description
  • Organizational information
  • Budget documentation
  • Funding request amount
  • Project timeline
  • Proof of insurance or nonprofit status, if applicable

Funding availability, eligibility requirements, and deadlines may vary depending on the program or fiscal year.

Funding Request Form