Buying Generator? Make Sure to Follow Local Laws

Contributed by the City of White Plains:

After the prolonged power outages brought on by Hurricane Sandy, residents may be considering purchasing a generator for their homes.

Here are some things to remember if you are considering agenerator:

Residential Generator Requirements (Permanent)

The following permits are required from City of White Plains Building Department:

• Mechanical Electrical Note: A Westchester County licensed electrician must be used
• Plumbing Note: A plumbing permit is only required if the generator uses natural or propane gas.
• A Westchester County licensed plumber must be used
• Gas service must be checked to confirm if the additional load of the generator can be accommodated.

Relevant Issues:

1. Location on property. Accessory structure setback requirements apply.
2. Noise. A maximum 65 decibels at property line is allowed.

Residential Generator Requirements (Portable)

The following permits are required from City of White Plains Building Department:

• Electrical Note: A Westchester County licensed electrician must be used for permanent connections.
• PlumbingNote: A plumbing permit is only required if the generator uses natural or propane gas.
• A Westchester County licensed plumber must be used;Gas service must be checked to confirm if the additional load of the generator can be accommodated.

Relevant issues:

1. Locate outdoors – a minimum of 10 ft. away from operable windows. Unit is a source of carbonmonoxide.
2. Noise. A maximum of 65 decibels at property line is allowed.
3. Be respectful of neighbors. A good practice is to shut unit off when not needed or at night.

Please contact the City of White Plains Building Department at (914) 422-1269 if you have any questions.