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Assessor - Real Property Assessment Complaints

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1. Who may complain?

Any person aggrieved by an assessment (e.g., an owner, purchaser, or tenant who is required to pay the real estate taxes pursuant to a lease or written agreement) may file a complaint. You may complete the complaint form yourself or your representative or attorney may complete it for you.

2. What assessment may be reviewed?

The only assessment that may be reviewed is the assessment on the current tentative assessment roll completed by the local assessor. As a general rule, a separate complaint should be filed for each separately assessed parcel.

3. Where must I file the complaint?

All complaints must be filed in the city, town or village where the property is located. For real property located within the City of White Plains, complaints may be filed in person or via U.S. Postal Service. Complaints are filed with either the Assessor or the Board of Assessment Review. Original applications must be received on or before the end of business day on January 21st of each year unless January 21st falls on a weekend or holiday then applications are accepted the next business day.

4. When must the complaint be filed?

All complaints may be filed January 2nd to January 21st of each year, unless January 21st is on a weekend or a holiday then applications are accepted the next business day. The failure to file your complaint in a timely fashion precludes your right to administrative and judicial review.

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Building Department - Certificates of Occupancy

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1. When is a Certificate of Occupancy (C/O) required?

No building or structure shall be used or occupied, and no change in the existing occupancy classification of a building, structure, or portion thereof shall be made until the Commissioner of Building has issued a Certificate of Occupancy.

2. What is required for a C/O?

All work done under all permits issued for the proposed project must be completed and inspected to the satisfaction of the Building Department, Fire Department, and any other departments or agencies having jurisdiction for the project.

3. How do I obtain a C/O for an existing building?

Complete a Building Short Form and choose the Updated and Substitute CO type to initiate the process. When the form is filled out and the necessary fee is paid, a code enforcement officer will arrange to inspect the premises for compliance and issuance of the C/O.

4. What does the inspection cost?

One and two family residence is $50. Three family residences and over are $80 plus $10 per dwelling unit up to $200. Commercial Buildings are $100.

5. What is the cost for a C/O on a new building or alteration?

A Temporary Certificate of Occupancy is $75. One and two family C/O's are $75. Condominium price is $75 / unit with a minimum of $300. Multifamily dwellings / hotels are $25 / unit with minimum of $300.

6. What if the project cannot be totally finished in time?

A Temporary Certificate of Occupancy can be issued provided all life safety and public health requirements have been installed, inspected, and cleared by all appropriate agencies.

7. What is a certificate of compliance?

A Certificate of Compliance is issued for additions and alterations to buildings not normally requiring a Certificate of Occupancy. Examples would be decks, additions, and alterations to buildings that do not change the use. A Certificate of Compliance should be obtained for all work under a building permit. It is the owners guarantee that the work was done properly and inspected by this department.

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Building Department - Site Plan Review

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1. What is a site plan?

Site plans are prepared for proposed new developments or modifications to existing developments. The site plan document contains drawings and related support materials, such as legal data, topography and natural features, building elevations, existing and proposed structures and utilities, and other information, as required by Section 7.3 of the Zoning Ordinance. This document allows the Building Department and the approving agency to review the site plan in accordance with Section 7.4 of the Zoning Ordinance. Site plans must be prepared and signed by a professional architect, landscape architect, land surveyor, or engineer licensed to practice in the State of New York.

2. Who approves a site plan?

The Common Council, Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, or Commissioner of Building exercise site plan approval authority in accordance with the provisions of Section 7.2 of the Zoning Ordinance. When a site plan is part of another application such as a special permit use, the approving agency for the special permit usually also approves the site plan.

3. How can I find out what is required to prepare a site plan application?

The site plan application must conform to all of the requirements of Section 7 of the Zoning Ordinance, and must include an Environmental Assessment Form and Tree Preservation Plan. In addition to the formal application requirements, a cover letter from the applicant to the approving agency outlining, in general terms, what is being proposed should be included as part of the formal submission.

4. Where do I get the necessary forms and information about filing a site plan application?

Application information, number of copies, and forms can be obtained from the Department of Building, located at 7-11 South Broadway. Filing fees are required. The Department of Building's staff, as well as staff of other city departments, will answer questions about the application and the review process.

5. What happens after an application is filed with the Department of Building?

The Department of Building will first determine whether the application is complete and conforms with zoning. If all requirements are met, the Department of Building will send the application to the approving agency which will be responsible for the review and approval of the site plan.

Site plans are referred by the approving agency to appropriate city departments and agencies for review and comments, depending on the location and/or the proposed use of the site or building. In addition, the Westchester County Planning board and/or abutting municipalities receive referral for review and comment where required.

Every applicant should become aware of which city agency will be receiving a referral of the application from the approving agency. The applicant should find out the meeting place, time and date of all reviewing boards and agencies and determine if attendance at these meetings is necessary.

6. What action is required by the approving agency before I can start work on my project?

The approving agency, after receiving and considering comments from referral agencies, and fulfilling all the other requirements of the Zoning Ordinance and environmental reviews, will adopt a resolution approving, approving with conditions, or denying the application.

The approving agency resolution may contain conditions which need to be complied with before building permits are issued. In addition, any required changes or additions to the construction plans must also be completed and accepted by the Department of Building.

After the site plan is approved by the approving agency, any subsequent major changes to the plans must be approved by the agency with site plan jurisdiction.

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Building Department - Subdivisions

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1. What is a subdivision?

A subdivision is the division of a lot, parcel, or tract of land into two or more lots for the purpose, whether immediate or future, of ownership transfer or building development with or without proposed new streets. The changing of the dimensions of two existing tax lots where no additional lots are created does not require subdivision approval. This is handled instead through what is called an "Administrative Lot Line Change," for which applications are made to the City Assessor's Office.

2. Who approves a subdivision?

The White Plains Planning Board is empowered by state and local laws to review and approve, approve with modification, or reject subdivision applications.

3. How can I find out what is required to prepare a subdivision application?

Subdivision applications should conform to Section 1-7 of the White Plains "Requirements for Approval of Subdivision Plans," and the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance and must include an environmental assessment form and Tree Preservation Plan.

4. Where do I get the necessary forms and information about filing a subdivision application?

The City's Department of Planning handles subdivision applications for the Planning Board. The Planning Board is a seven member citizen board authorized to review and approve subdivisions. All forms and information about what is required to prepare the application, as well as Planning Board meeting dates and other background can be obtained in our department.

5. What happens after the application is filed with the Planning Board?

The Planning board meets once a month on the third Tuesday. Applications need to be filed at least a week before the meeting date. Before the Planning board takes any action on a subdivision application, it is referred to other city boards, agencies, and departments for review and comment.

Depending on the particular subdivision, a number of city departments and boards may be asked for comments on the proposed subdivision. These include the Building, Public Safety, Traffic, Public Works, Planning, and Law Departments. In addition, the Environmental Officer, the Tree Preservation Committee, Conservation board, and Traffic Commission may also be involved.

6. Will my subdivision application require a public hearing?

All subdivisions require a public hearing. It is the applicant's responsibility to publish a notice of public hearing in the newspaper and to notify neighbors by certified mail. Specific instructions for public notification requirements can be obtained from the Department of Planning.

7. What happens after the Planning Board approves my subdivision?

Once the subdivision plat is complete and meets all the requirements of the board and regulations, it is signed by the Commissioner of Public Works, the Receiver of Taxes, and the Chairperson of the Planning Board.

8. What is the final step in the approval process?

After all conditions of subdivision approval are met, all fees paid, and the subdivision is signed off by the County's Commissioner of Health, the applicant may file the approved plat with the Westchester County Clerk - Division of Land Records.

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Cable Television

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1. Where is the studio located?

The studio is now locate at 100 Martine Avenue, the White Plains Public Library.  We can be found on the second floor. Our main entrance is in the corner of the Library gallery.  Do not enter through the door marked "studio" unless it is wide open.  You don’t want to walk in on a show during production

2. When are you open?

Our hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, not including City observed holidays.  Recordngs can be booked between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

3. Is there a fee?

Basic in-studio production is free for all White Plains residents. The only cost is for recording media (DVDs, flash drives, hard drives) and for copies.

4. Do I need to know how to operate a camera?

No. We can teach you or provide staff for in-studio productions.

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City Clerk - Dog Licenses

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1. How do I get Dog License and how much does it cost?

For everything you need to know about obtaining a dog license click here: https://www.cityofwhiteplains.com/380/Dog-Licenses 

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Code Enforcement

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1. My apartment is very cold what can I do?

If the temperature is less than 68° F call your building super or property manager first. If you do not get a response call the Building Department.

2. I am concerned that work is being done without a permit.

If you see work being done at a house and do not see a permit displayed in the window call the Department of Building. Keep in mind, not all work requires a building permit.

3. There are cars illegally parked on my street.

If you observe cars parked illegally in the street call the Department of Public Safety. If you see a car parked in a driveway that overhangs into the sidewalk call the Department of Public Works. If you see commercial vehicles parked on private property in a residential zone call the Department of Building.

4. I believe that a home on my street has too many people living in it.

If you suspect a house is overcrowded contact the Building Department, please be specific about what you observed. Keep in mind that the State of New York defines a “family” as one or more persons living in a house or apartment that share the house elements, such as the kitchen, bathroom, living room, dining room, etc. They also share in expenses and essentially live as a “family” even though they may not be blood related.

5. What can I do if my neighbor has property maintenance issues?

If you see overgrown grass, debris, trash, etc. on private property call the Building Department. If you see similar items on the sidewalk or in the street call the Department of Public Works.

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Finance Department

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1. How much is the interest rate for delinquent taxes/water?

The interest rate is 1% per month for overdue taxes/water charges. Pursuant to NYS Real Property Tax Law we cannot waive interest/penalties for any reason if the payment is late.

2. Can I pay my taxes or water bill with a credit/debit card via telephone or online?

Yes, water bills can be paid by phone at (914) 422-5178. Water bills and taxes can be paid with a credit card on-line at the following link. Online Tax and Water Payments

3. How do I request a final water reading?

To request a final water reading you must call 914-422-1211. There is a $75.00 charge for a final reading.

4. How much is the White Plains City Budget?

2018-19 City Budget: $174,046,442

5. How often am I billed for water usage?

Residential water in The City of White Plains is divided into six districts. Every district is billed twice a year. Commercial users, as defined in the city charter, are billed quarterly.

6. How do I update my mailing address?

If you would like to change your mailing address on your tax/water bill or any other information pertaining to your bill, please e-mail the Finance Department at waterbills@whiteplainsny.gov or finrec@whiteplainsny.gov

water account change form

tax account change form

7. Is there a grace period for taxes?

Yes. Taxes are due on the date printed on the bills. They can be paid up to and including the last day of the month without interest/penalty. They must be postmarked/hand delivered by the due date or will be subject to interest/penalty.

8. What Determines the Amount of a Property Tax Bill?

The amount of a particular property's tax bill is determined by two things: the property's taxable assessment and the tax levies, i.e., property tax budget, of the taxing jurisdictions in which the property is located. The tax rate is determined by dividing the tax levy to be raised from all, or part, of an assessing unit, and the applicable total taxable assessed value. The assessment is determined by the assessor and should be based on the value of the property less any applicable property tax exemptions.

9. What Determines the Tax Rate?

The tax rate is the result of dividing the tax levy, i.e., property tax budget, by the applicable total taxable assessments.

10. Is there a minimum charge for water/sewer?

If there is water service on your property then there will be an A/D (available on demand) charge based on the size of the meter.

11. Does the City of White Plains shut off water for non-payment?

No. Unpaid water charges are re-levied against your property as a tax lien on the subsequent July 1st.

12. What is the Sales Tax Rate in White Plains?

The sales tax rate is 8 3/8% or .08375.

13. How is the sales tax collected in White Plains divided up?

NYS receives 4.00%, Westchester County receives 1.50%, City of White Plains receives 2.50% and the MTA receives 0.375%.

14. What is the sewer rate?

The commercial and residential sewer rates are calculated at 19% of the water billed.

15. What is the city/school tax rates for Fiscal Year 2018/19?

General City Rate: $211.36 City School District: $644.66

16. What are the current County tax rates for calendar year 2018

County/Refuse/Bronx Valley Sewer $126.61 County/Refuse/Mamaroneck Valley Sewer $130.27

17. What is the water rate?

The commercial and residential water rates can be obtained at the following link to the City's Municipal Code. Water Rates

18. When are the tax bills due?

January - City/School taxes
April - County taxes
July - City/School taxes

19. When can I expect to receive my tax bill?

Tax bills are mailed out mid-December and late March and June. If you do not receive a bill during this time, please call the tax office (914) 422-1235, for more information.

20. Where can I go with assessment and/or STAR questions?

Contact the Assessor's Office. Email: Assessor@whiteplainsny.gov Phone: (914) 422-1225

21. Where do I mail my Tax payment?

If including the payment stub, please mail your payment stub and your check made payable to the Commissioner of Finance to: City of White Plains P.O. Box 5086 White Plains, NY 10602-5086

If you are NOT including the payment stub, please mail your check made payable to the Commissioner of Finance to: City of White Plains Finance Department 255 Main St Rm 102 White Plains, NY 10601

22. Where do I mail my water payments?

If including the payment stub, please mail your payment stub and your check made payable to the Commissioner of Finance to: City of White Plains P.O. Box 5064 White Plains, NY 10602-5064. 

If you are NOT including the payment stub, please mail your check made payable to the Commissioner of Finance to: City of White Plains Finance Department 255 Main St Rm 102 White Plains, NY 10601

23. What do I need to do if I own/manage a hotel/motel in the City of White Plains?

On September 8, 2009, a local law was adopted, amending chapters two through four of the City’s Municipal Code, adding a new division entitled "Room Occupancy Tax." As a result of this new law, there is a tax of 3% imposed upon the rent for every occupancy of a room or rooms in a hotel/motel in the City of White Plains, except that the tax shall not be imposed upon a permanent resident or exempt occupant. This law pertains to all hotel/motel occupancy on and after October 1, 2009. Click the following link for the form. Room Occupancy Tax Remittance Form

24. Can I have my tax/water payments taken directly out of my checking account?

The City of White Plains has the ability to automatically debit payments when due from your checking account. To sign up for this program, print and complete an Authorization Agreement below and forward to: City of White Plains, Finance Department, 255 Main St Rm 102, White Plains, NY 10601, along with a voided check. Authorization Agreement

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Parking/Traffic Department - Biking

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1. Do bike lanes improve safety?

Yes. Bike lanes provide a designated lane for cyclists and serve as a highly visible means of alerting drivers that cyclist are sharing the road.

2. What are the benefits of having bike lanes?

Bike lanes help reduce traffic by providing a safe alternative method of travel for people to get to the places they need to go. Bike lanes also encourage a healthy lifestyle by offering a way to stay active and have fun.

3. Will bike lanes affect traffic patterns and speed limits?

City of White Plains bike lanes have had a limited effect (only a few minor lane use changes and reductions have been made) on current traffic patterns and do not affect posted speed limits. However, it is advised that as a cautionary measure, drivers reduce their speed when traveling near cyclists. Drivers should also cross only “dashed” line bicycle lane segments, and cross these with caution while looking for active bike riders.

4. Can a car drive in a bike lane?

Cars should not travel in bike lanes, but are permitted to cross “dashed” line bicycle lane segments. It is important to remember that every lane is a bike lane. Even with dedicated bike lanes cyclists have the right to use almost any road (with a few high speed exceptions).

5. Are cyclists supposed to ride as far to the right as possible?

Cyclists may ride to the right within a bike lane if it feels safer to them but they are not required to by law. When bike lanes are adjacent to parked cars, cyclists are advised to ride in the left portion of the lane, about 4 to 5 feet from the parked cars.

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Parking/Traffic Department - Traffic

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1. What are those bird sounds I hear downtown?

White Plains has one of the more ambitious programs in the northeast for installing audible pedestrian signals to aid the elderly and sight impaired. There are 91 units currently installed at 17 intersections with more planned. Bird sounds activate during the "walk" phase and identify the range of time when it is safest to start crossing. The "chirp chirp" is for east / west crossing and the "cuckoo" is for north / south crossing.

2. Why can't we have more stop signs to control speeds on our streets?

Stop signs are warranted on the low volume approaches of intersections to clearly establish right of way. Use of unwarranted stop signs often leads to disregard of both those signs and others in the vicinity which may be more critical.

White Plains has recently purchased a speed display sign which can be used as an educational tool to help reduce speeds in the neighborhoods. The sign can be rotated among streets where more frequent violations occur. It temporarily displays individual vehicle speeds (for three seconds) while permanently displaying the 30 mph citywide speed limit.

3. What is that bright white flashing light that comes on during the red signal at Mamaroneck Avenue and Old Mamaroneck Road?

In certain situations, there are excessive red light violations. Sometimes drivers simply do not see the red signal because of its distance in relation to another signal or because it changes to red very infrequently. Strobe lights, which can accompany the red signal at these locations, are helpful in reducing violations and enhancing safety.

4. How do buttons for pedestrian work?

A special effort has been made to make sure all these buttons are operational. Please note that these buttons do not immediately respond; there is a wait time of up to 100 seconds, although typical wait times are shorter. Unfortunately, due to the delay, pedestrians may become impatient or conclude the button is not working and cross the street at improper times. Where the buttons are present, it is very important that they be used to activate the pedestrian walk interval. Please use them and follow the directions on the adjacent signs. Use of the button is the only way to ensure that sufficient crossing time will be provided.

5. When can "Children At Play" signs be used?

Excessive and improper use of this sign in prior years had rendered it ineffective in residential areas where it was typically used. The New York state recommended warrants have been modified so that now it can only be used in predominantly nonresidential areas. It is used where activities such as children playing in the vicinity roadways is unexpected.

It should also be clear that children should never be encouraged to play in any street, even on low volume streets such as dead ends. They often become complacent about the real danger that exists and are at risk when walking near, or crossing, busier streets. And yes, we have had numerous child / vehicle accidents on dead-end streets in White Plains in recent years.

6. Why do some traffic signals seem to take so long to change?

Most of the traffic signals in White Plains are a part of a system in which signals close together are timed to provide a safe and efficient progression of traffic flow. In order to keep these patterns consistent, they cannot allow side streets to turn green as soon as vehicles or pedestrians arrive. The system waits for the correct time to fit the side street green into the pattern. Therefore, with random arrival, wait times can vary from 1 to 100 seconds during peak travel times and 1 to 90 seconds during off-peak times. One hundred seconds can seem more like 5 minutes when you're in a hurry. To help compensate for this, some low volume approaches run on a half cycle or "free" operation during less busy times.

7. What is the purpose of rubber posts in the road?

There are many intersections in White Plains where white arrows or solid white lines are used to establish proper lane use. Unfortunately, too many motorists ignore these road markings because it is easy to ride right over them. The physical obstruction that rubber posts present leads to much greater lane use compliance and lower accident rates. Where they can be used, there are dramatic improvements. Accidents have been reduced as much as eighty percent at some locations.

8. What is the speed limit on streets without signs?

White Plains has a citywide legal speed limit of 30 miles per hour signed with black on white regulatory signing at each entry point into the city. Certain street sections such as Mamaroneck Avenue have higher speed limits. Black on yellow signs indicate advisory speeds for various conditions such as sharp curves. The 30 mile per hour limit is the minimum allowed citywide speed limit for all villages, towns, and cities in New York State in accordance with state law.

9. How many vehicles travel in and out of White Plains each day?

There are approximately 300,000 vehicles entering and leaving downtown White Plains on a typical weekday. This number can increase as much as 25% during the holiday season when business and shopping peaks overlap.

Fringe developed areas along Westchester Avenue (Platinum Mile), Central Avenue / Tarrytown Road, and southern Mamaroneck Avenue generate approximately an additional 100,000 - 150,000 vehicles per day.

10. Why are there so many "No Turn On Red" signs in White Plains?

There are numerous reasons for installing a "No Turn On Red" restriction, but the most prevalent reason is to protect pedestrians. When traffic is looking to make a turn on red, the driver often looks in the opposite direction from where pedestrians are crossing in order to find a gap in vehicular traffic. Motorists start to move into these gaps before they look back to check for pedestrians. It is for this reason that many intersections in downtown or near schools have a "No Turn On Red" regulation.

The Department of Traffic regularly addressed all of these and many other issues to increase the safety for White Plains residents, whether they travel the streets of the city as motorists or pedestrians.

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Personnel Department - Fire Fighter

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1. WHEN IS THE WHITE PLAINS FIRE FIGHTER EXAM?

The next written examination for entry-level Fire Fighter for the City of White Plains is currently scheduled for May 1, 2021. Applications and filing fee of $50 (no cash) must be postmarked or filed by the last filing date.

2. IS THIS EXAMINATION ONLY FOR FIRE FIGHTER POSITIONS IN THE CITY OF WHITE PLAINS?

Yes.  If you are interested in becoming a Fire Fighter for any other municipality, you must file a separate application following their application procedures when they schedule their exam.  We can only provide you with information about the White Plains exam.

3. CAN I TAKE THE FIRE FIGHTER EXAM FOR WHITE PLAINS AND FOR ANOTHER NYS MUNICIPALITY SCHEDULED ON THE SAME DAY?

Yes, for any other NYS municipality other than the City of New York.  Simply follow the filing procedures for both exams, and inform us about the other exam on the Cross Filer Form and attach it to your White Plains application.

4. HOW DO I APPLY?

Completed application and exam fee are only accepted either:
At the 3 locations listed on the announcement and ONLY until 5pm of the last filing date.
OR
If mailed and postmarked by the US Post Office no later than the last filing date (certified mail is recommended  especially if on or near the last filing date).  Any application received without the exam fee will not be accepted.  Any application received or postmarked after the last filing date will not be accepted.
OR
If serving actively in the military as per Sections 243-b (2) and (3) of NY State Military Law, a late application will be accepted with proof of military orders.   Those serving active military duty during the filing period, will under Section 243-c of NYS Military Law be permitted to file an application up to 10 business days prior to the date of the exam.

We do not accept applications by fax or e-mail.

5. HOW CAN I OBTAIN A COPY OF THE ANNOUNCEMENT AND APPLICATION?

Once announced, both the Announcement and Application can be picked up at these White Plains locations:

City Hall, Personnel Dept, 255 Main St, Rm. 301

Monday-Friday between 9am-5pm

Thomas H. Slater Center, 2 Fisher Court

Monday-Friday between 9am-5pm

El Centro Hispano, 346 So. Lexington Ave

Monday-Friday between 12pm-5pm

6. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO APPLY?

There is a $50 non-refundable application fee which can be paid by:

Check or Money Order payable to the City of White Plains with the candidate’s name either printed or written on it, and the exam #; 

Visa,  Mastercard or American Express. 

NO CASH is accepted.

7. WHAT HAPPENS IF MY CHECK BOUNCES?

You will receive a letter from the Personnel Department allowing you to resubmit the $50 exam fee plus a $20 bounced check fee as a pre-paid money order only.  You will have 10 business days from the date of the letter to resubmit all fees.  You will not be allowed to pay by check for any future exams with the City of White Plains.

8. IF I WANT TO PAY BY CREDIT CARD, CAN I DO IT BY MAIL?

Yes, but the applicant must be the card holder with the same billing address as the address provided on the application or it cannot be processed.  Enter your credit card information at the bottom of the front page of the application.  If another card holder will be paying your fee, the card holder must be present in our office when the application is submitted.

9. WHY SHOULD I BOTHER FILLING OUT ALL THAT INFORMATION ON THE APPLICATION?

The information you provide will be carefully reviewed and will determine if you are eligible for admission to the examination.  A vague or incomplete application may result in your disqualification.  Untrue information could result in your removal from the eligible list even if you pass all parts of the exam.  Please review it carefully after filling it out to be sure everything is filled out accurately and completely, both front and back.   Please print neatly.    Remember to sign it the application.

10. IS THERE A RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT?

Yes.  You must have been a legal resident of Westchester County for at least three (3) continuous months prior to the exam date and to the date of appointment.   Preferential hiring is made from those candidates who are legal residents of the City of White Plains under the terms of a federal consent decree.  This is subject to verification and investigation.  Proof of residency may be required.

11. WHAT IF I MOVE AFTER I FILE MY APPLICATION? HOW DO I CHANGE MY ADDRESS?

Candidates must notify this office in writing of a change of address using the Change of Address Form available on our website. 

It is important that you keep us informed of your current address both prior to and after the exam so we can contact you. 

12. IS U.S. CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED?

Yes, but it is NOT required to take the examination.   You will be required to show proof of citizenship in order to be appointed if you pass all parts of the exam and you are selected for appointment.

13. WHAT IF I DON’T YET HAVE MY HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA?

There are alternatives.  Please refer to the exam announcement.

14. ARE THERE AGE LIMITS FOR THE FIRE FIGHTER EXAM?

AGE REQUIREMENT: Applicants must not be less than seventeen and a half (17-1/2) years old on the date of the written exam.  Eligibility for appointment as a Fire Fighter begins when an applicant reaches his or her eighteenth (18^th) birthday.  Applicants who lack one month or less of the minimum age requirements shall be deemed eligible if otherwise qualified.

15. HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS APPROVED?

You will receive a Notice of Admission to the examination, which will also provide information on the Free Training.   If you have not received a Notice of Admission, three (3) months prior to the exam, please contact our office as soon as possible.

16. IF I AM DISAPPROVED, WILL I GET MY MONEY BACK?

NO.   The $50 is a non-refundable filing fee.  You should read the exam announcement carefully to be sure you qualify before filing your application.

17. WHAT IF I LOSE MY ADMISSION NOTICE?

Contact our office immediately for a replacement copy.  You will need to show a photo ID and be fingerprinted at the test site if you do not have your admission notice.  Do not wait until the morning of the exam to look for your Admission Notice.

18. HOW CAN I LOCATE A TEST GUIDE TO HELP ME PREPARE FOR THE FIRE FIGHTER EXAM?

The Test Guide for this examination, as well as others, is available online at: https://www.cs.ny.gov/testing/localtestguides.cfm

Additional general exam related information is also available How to Take a Written Test and Questions and Answers about Municipal Civil Service Exams

OR a copy can be obtained in our office Monday-Friday 9-5 at Personnel Dept, 255 Main St, Rm. 301, White Plains, NY 10601.

Please note the most important document you should carefully read and consider is the examination announcement itself. Candidates should pay close attention to the "Subjects of Examination" section of the announcement to be informed about the test type and content, and focus their examination preparation upon the information described in this portion of the announcement.

19. WHEN DOES THE FREE TRAINING BEGIN?

You will be notified in the Notice of Admission of the available dates. Training will be held over a series of sessions for which training material will be made available.

20. WHEN WILL I BE NOTIFIED ABOUT THE NEXT PHASE OF THE FIRE FIGHTER EXAM?

You will be notified by mail of your grade on the written exam.  In that letter candidates who passed the written exam will also receive information about the scheduled Practice Agility Test and scheduled Actual Agility Test.

21. MUST I ATTEND THE PRACTICE PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST?

NO.   The practice agility test is optional.

22. WHEN WILL I BE NOTIFIED ABOUT THE ACTUAL PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST?

We will mail your scheduled date and time approximately 6 months after written exam date.

23. MUST I ATTEND THE ACTUAL PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST?

YES.   You must take and pass the actual agility test to be placed on the eligible list for Fire Fighter.

24. WHERE IS THE PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST LOCATED?

The location of the test is included in your Admission Notice letter which is mailed to you. 

25. WHAT IF IT RAINS OR THE WEATHER IS BAD ON THE DAY I AM SCHEDULED TO TAKE THE AGILITY TEST?

A message will be left at (914) 422-1279 if the test is cancelled due to inclement weather.

26. WHAT TYPE OF EVENTS ARE INCLUDED IN THE PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST?

The events are described in detail in the Fire Fighter Agility Handbook and the Illustrated Guide for CWP Fire Agility Test.

27. WHAT IF I DO NOT RECEIVE A LETTER FROM YOUR OFFICE WITH INFORMATION REGARDING THE PHYSICAL AGILITY?

If you do not receive a letter please call our office at (914) 422-1257.

28. WHAT IF I LOSE MY ADMISSION NOTICE BEFORE THE PHYSICAL AGILITY EXAM?

Contact our office immediately.  You will need a photo ID and will be fingerprinted at the test site.

29. WHAT IF MY ADDRESS CHANGES?

If the address you wrote on your application changes, it is your responsibility to notify us by completing the Change of Address Form and returning it to our office.

30. MAY I RESCHEDULE MY ACTUAL PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST?

Yes, however, you may do so only once, and due to the number of candidates taking the test and the limited number of test dates, rescheduling is done on a first-come first-served basis.  Therefore please only request a reschedule date if absolutely necessary. Rescheduling must be approved prior to your original schedule date. Information will be provided in your admission notice.

31. WHAT HAPPENS ONCE I PASS THE PHYSICAL AGILITY EXAM?

If you pass the physical agility exam, your name will be ranked on an eligible list according to your scores on the agility test.  Since the City of White Plains is subject to a federal consent decree, the eligible list must first be approved by the U.S. Justice Department prior to establishment which is projected for January following the agility exam.  Once the list is established, the names of the eligible candidates are sent to the Department of Public Safety for background check and interviews as vacant positions become available.  If you are the selected candidate, the job offer extended to you will be conditional on passing a background check and a medical exam.

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Personnel Department - Police Officer

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1. WHEN IS THE WHITE PLAINS POLICE OFFICER EXAM?

The next written examination for entry-level Police Officer for the City of White Plains is anticipated to be held in November 2019 (unless otherwise announced). Please look for exam announcements in local newspapers and on this website in the February of 2019.  Applications and filing fee of $50 (no cash) must be postmarked or filed by the last filing date.

2. IS THIS EXAMINATION ONLY FOR POLICE OFFICER POSITIONS IN THE CITY OF WHITE PLAINS?

Yes.  If you are interested in becoming a Police Officer for any other municipality, you must file a separate application following their application procedures when they schedule their exam.  We can only provide you with information about the White Plains exam.

3. CAN I TAKE THE POLICE OFFICER EXAM FOR WHITE PLAINS AND FOR ANOTHER NYS MUNICIPALITY SCHEDULED ON THE SAME DAY?

Yes, for any other NYS municipality other than the City of New York.  Simply follow the filing procedures for both exams, and inform us about the other exam on the Cross Filer Form and attach it to your White Plains application.

4. HOW DO I APPLY?

Completed application and exam fee are only accepted either:
At the 3 locations listed on the announcement and ONLY until 5pm of the last filing date.
OR
If mailed and postmarked by the US Post Office no later than the last filing date (certified mail is recommended especially if on or near the last filing date). Any application received without the exam fee will not be accepted. Any application received or postmarked after the last filing date will not be accepted.
OR
If serving actively in the military as per Sections 243-b (2) and (3) of NY State Military Law, a late application will be accepted with proof of military orders.   Those serving active military duty during the filing period, will under Section 243-c of NYS Military Law be permitted to file an application up to 10 business days prior to the date of the exam.

We do not accept applications by fax or e-mail.

5. HOW CAN I OBTAIN A COPY OF THE ANNOUNCEMENT AND APPLICATION?

Once announced, both the Announcement and Application can be picked up at these White Plains locations:

City Hall, Personnel Dept, 255 Main St, Rm. 301

Monday-Friday between 9am-5pm

Thomas H. Slater Center, 2 Fisher Court

Monday-Friday between 9am-5pm

El Centro Hispano, 346 So. Lexington Ave

Monday-Friday between 12pm-5pm

6. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO APPLY?

There is a $50 non-refundable application fee which can be paid by:

Check or Money Order payable to the City of White Plains with the candidate’s name either printed or written on it, and the exam #; 

Visa,  Mastercard or American Express. 

NO CASH is accepted.

7. WHAT HAPPENS IF MY CHECK BOUNCES?

You will receive a letter from the Personnel Department allowing you to resubmit the $50 exam fee plus a $20 bounced check fee as a pre-paid money order only.  You will have 10 business days from the date of the letter to resubmit all fees.  You will not be allowed to pay by check for any future exams with the City of White Plains.

8. IF I WANT TO PAY BY CREDIT CARD, CAN I DO IT BY MAIL?

Yes, but the applicant must be the card holder with the same billing address as the address provided on the application or it cannot be processed.  Enter your credit card information at the bottom of the front page of the application.  If another card holder will be paying your fee, the card holder must be present in our office when the application is submitted.

9. WHY SHOULD I BOTHER FILLING OUT ALL THAT INFORMATION ON THE APPLICATION?

The information you provide will be carefully reviewed and will determine if you are eligible for admission to the examination.  A vague or incomplete application may result in your disqualification.  Untrue information could result in your removal from the eligible list even if you pass all parts of the exam.  Please review it carefully after filling it out to be sure everything is filled out accurately and completely, both front and back.   Please print neatly.    Remember to sign the application.

10. IS THERE A RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT?

Yes. You must have been a legal resident of one of the six (6) following Counties: Westchester, Putnam, Nassau, Rockland, Orange or Bronx for at least one (1) month prior to the exam date and to the date of appointment.  This is subject to verification and investigation. Proof of residency may be required.

11. WHAT IF I MOVE AFTER I FILE MY APPLICATION? HOW DO I CHANGE MY ADDRESS?

Candidates must notify this office in writing of a change of address using the Change of Address Form available on our website. 

It is important that you keep us informed of your current address both prior to and after the exam so we can contact you. 

12. IS U.S. CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED?

Yes, but it is NOT required to take the examination.   You will be required to show proof of citizenship in order to be appointed if you pass all parts of the exam and you are selected for appointment.

13. WHAT IF I DON'T YET HAVE MY HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA?

You will be admitted to the examination, but you will be required to show proof of a High School or Equivalency Diploma in order to be appointed if you pass all parts of the exam and you are selected for appointment.

14. ARE THERE AGE LIMITS FOR THE POLICE OFFICER EXAM?

AGE REQUIREMENT: The following are Pursuant to Section 58 of the NYS Civil Service Law:

Minimum Age:    To be certified as eligible for appointment applicants must be at least 20 years of age.

Maximum Age:   Candidates may not have reached 35 years of age as of the date of the written examination.

 Effect of Military Duty on Age Limits: As defined in Section 243 (1-b and 10-a) of NYS Military Law, up to six (6) years shall be subtracted from the chronological age of an eligible applicant’s maximum age for appointment based on the period of  active military duty. Candidates exercising this provision must submit form DD-214 with their application.

15. HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS APPROVED?

You will receive a Notice of Admission to the examination, which will also provide information on the Free Training.   If you have not received a Notice of Admission, four (4) months prior to the exam, please contact our office as soon as possible.

16. IF I AM DISAPPROVED, WILL I GET MY MONEY BACK?

NO.   The $50 is a non-refundable filing fee.  You should read the exam announcement carefully to be sure you qualify before filing your application.

17. WHAT IF I LOSE MY ADMISSION NOTICE?

Contact our office immediately for a replacement copy.  You will need to show a photo ID and be fingerprinted at the test site if you do not have your admission notice.  Do not wait until the morning of the exam to look for your Admission Notice.

18. HOW CAN I LOCATE A TEST GUIDE TO HELP ME PREPARE FOR THE POLICE OFFICER EXAM?

The Test Guide for this examination, as well as others, is available online at: https://www.cs.ny.gov/testing/localtestguides.cfm

Additional general exam related information is also available How to Take a Written Test and Questions and Answers about Municipal Civil Service Exams

OR a copy can be obtained in our office Monday-Friday 9-5 at Personnel Dept, 255 Main St, Rm. 301, White Plains, NY 10601.

Please note the most important document you should carefully read and consider is the examination announcement itself. Candidates should pay close attention to the "Subjects of Examination" section of the announcement to be informed about the test type and content, and focus their examination preparation upon the information described in this portion of the announcement.

19. WHEN DOES THE FREE TRAINING BEGIN?

You will be notified in the Notice of Admission of the available dates. Training will be held over a series of sessions for which training material will be made available.

20. WHEN WILL I BE NOTIFIED ABOUT THE NEXT PHASE OF THE POLICE OFFICER EXAM?

You will be notified by mail of your grade on the written exam.  In that letter candidates who passed the written exam will also receive information about the scheduled Practice Agility Test.

21. MUST I ATTEND THE PRACTICE PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST?

NO.   The practice agility test is optional.

22. WHEN WILL I BE NOTIFIED ABOUT THE ACTUAL PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST?

We will mail your scheduled date and time approximately 6 months after written exam date.

23. MUST I ATTEND THE ACTUAL PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST?

YES.   You must take and pass the actual agility test to be placed on the eligible list for Police Officer.

24. WHERE IS THE PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST LOCATED?

The location of the test is included in your Admission Notice letter which is mailed to you.  

25. WHAT IF IT RAINS OR THE WEATHER IS BAD ON THE DAY I AM SCHEDULED TO TAKE THE AGILITY TEST?

A message will be left at (914) 422-1279 if the test is cancelled due to inclement weather.

26. WHAT TYPE OF EVENTS ARE INCLUDED IN THE PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST?

The events are described in detail in the Police Office Physical Agility Standards.

27. WHAT IF I DO NOT RECEIVE A LETTER FROM YOUR OFFICE WITH INFORMATION REGARDING THE PHYSICAL AGILITY?

If you do not receive a letter please call our office at (914) 422-1257.

28. WHAT IF I LOSE MY ADMISSION NOTICE BEFORE THE PHYSICAL AGILITY EXAM?

Contact our office immediately.  You will need a photo ID and will be fingerprinted at the test site.

29. WHAT IF MY ADDRESS CHANGES?

If the address you wrote on your application changes, it is your responsibility to notify us by completing the Change of Address Form and returning it to our office.

30. MAY I RESCHEDULE MY ACTUAL PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST?

Yes, however, you may do so only once, and due to the number of candidates taking the test and the limited number of test dates, rescheduling is done on a first-come first-served basis.  Therefore please only request a reschedule date if absolutely necessary. Rescheduling must be approved prior to your original schedule date. Information will be provided in your admission notice.

31. WHAT HAPPENS ONCE I PASS THE PHYSICAL AGILITY EXAM?

If you pass the physical agility exam, your name will be placed on an eligible list.  Since the City of White Plains is subject to a federal consent decree, the eligible list must first be approved by the U.S. Justice Department prior to establishment which is projected for January following the agility exam.  Once the list is established, the names of the eligible candidates are sent to the Department of Public Safety for background check and interviews as vacant positions become available.  If you are the selected candidate, the job offer extended to you will be conditional on passing a background check and a medical & psychological exam.

32. WHEN DO I GO TO THE POLICE ACADEMY?

Only those candidates who pass the background, physical agility, and medical/psychological exams; and have been offered and accept a position as a Police Officer in the City of White Plains will be sent to the Police Academy.

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Planning Board

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1. When and Where does the Planning Board meet?

The Planning Board meets the third Tuesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. in the Common Council Chambers, located at 255 Main Street (2nd floor), White Plains.

2. How many copies of my plans do I need to provide to the Planning Board?

The Planning Board requires 12 copies of plans and any supporting documentation. 

3. Where can I find a Planning Board application?

There is no Planning Board application. All site plan and special use permit applications are filed with the Building Department. The plans will be referred to the Planning Board for review and approval after they have been reviewed for completeness by the Building Department. 

4. What is the submission deadline?

Applications and plans must be filed with the Building Department at least two weeks before the Planning Board meeting date. 

5. How do I file public notice of a hearing?

Public notice instructions can be found here.

6. Where can I find a Subdivision application?

Subdivision application forms can be found here.

7. What is a subdivision?

A subdivision is the division of a lot, parcel, or tract of land into two or more lots for the purpose, whether immediate or future, of ownership transfer or building development with or without proposed new streets. The changing of the dimensions of two existing tax lots where no additional lots are created does not require subdivision approval. This is handled instead through what is called an "Administrative Lot Line Change," for which applications are made to the City Assessor's Office.

8. Who approves a subdivision?

The White Plains Planning Board is empowered by state and local laws to review and approve, approve with modification, or reject subdivision applications.

9. How can I find out what is required to prepare a subdivision application?

Subdivision applications should conform to Section 1-7 of the White Plains "Requirements for Approval of Subdivision Plans," and the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance and must include an environmental assessment form and Tree Preservation Plan.

10. Where do I get the necessary forms and information about filing a subdivision application?

The City's Department of Planning handles subdivision applications for the Planning Board. The Planning Board is a seven member citizen board authorized to review and approve subdivisions. All forms and information about what is required to prepare the application, as well as Planning Board meeting dates and other background can be obtained in our department.

11. What happens after the application is filed with the Planning Board?

The Planning board meets once a month on the third Tuesday. Applications need to be filed at least a week before the meeting date. Before the Planning board takes any action on a subdivision application, it is referred to other city boards, agencies, and departments for review and comment.

Depending on the particular subdivision, a number of city departments and boards may be asked for comments on the proposed subdivision. These include the Building, Public Safety, Traffic, Public Works, Planning, and Law Departments. In addition, the Environmental Officer, the Tree Preservation Committee, Conservation board, and Traffic Commission may also be involved.

12. Will my subdivision application require a public hearing?

All subdivisions require a public hearing. It is the applicant's responsibility to publish a notice of public hearing in the newspaper and to notify neighbors by certified mail. Specific instructions for public notification requirements can be obtained from the Department of Planning.

13. What happens after the Planning Board approves my subdivision?

Once the subdivision plat is complete and meets all the requirements of the board and regulations, it is signed by the Commissioner of Public Works, the Receiver of Taxes, and the Chairperson of the Planning Board.

14. What is the final step in the approval process?

After all conditions of subdivision approval are met, all fees paid, and the subdivision is signed off by the County's Commissioner of Health, the applicant may file the approved plat with the Westchester County Clerk - Division of Land Records. Please view the full instructions here.

15. What is a site plan?

Site plans are prepared for proposed new developments or modifications to existing developments. The site plan document contains drawings and related support materials, such as legal data, topography and natural features, building elevations, existing and proposed structures and utilities, and other information, as required by Section 7.3 of the Zoning Ordinance. This document allows the Building Department and the approving agency to review the site plan in accordance with Section 7.4 of the Zoning Ordinance. Site plans must be prepared and signed by a professional architect, landscape architect, land surveyor, or engineer licensed to practice in the State of New York.

16. Who approves a site plan?

The Common Council, Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, or Commissioner of Building exercise site plan approval authority in accordance with the provisions of Section 7.2 of the Zoning Ordinance. When a site plan is part of another application such as a special permit use, the approving agency for the special permit usually also approves the site plan.

17. How can I find out what is required to prepare a site plan application?

The site plan application must conform to all of the requirements of Section 7 of the Zoning Ordinance, and must include an Environmental Assessment Form and Tree Preservation Plan. In addition to the formal application requirements, a cover letter from the applicant to the approving agency outlining, in general terms, what is being proposed should be included as part of the formal submission.

18. Where do I get the necessary forms and information about filing a site plan application?

Application information, number of copies, and forms can be obtained from the Department of Building, located at 7-11 South Broadway. Filing fees are required. The Department of Building's staff, as well as staff of other city departments, will answer questions about the application and the review process.

19. What happens after an application is filed with the Department of Building?

The Department of Building will first determine whether the application is complete and conforms with zoning. If all requirements are met, the Department of Building will send the application to the approving agency which will be responsible for the review and approval of the site plan.

Site plans are referred by the approving agency to appropriate city departments and agencies for review and comments, depending on the location and/or the proposed use of the site or building. In addition, the Westchester County Planning board and/or abutting municipalities receive referral for review and comment where required.

Every applicant should become aware of which city agency will be receiving a referral of the application from the approving agency. The applicant should find out the meeting place, time and date of all reviewing boards and agencies and determine if attendance at these meetings is necessary.

20. What action is required by the approving agency before I can start work on my project?

The approving agency, after receiving and considering comments from referral agencies, and fulfilling all the other requirements of the Zoning Ordinance and environmental reviews, will adopt a resolution approving, approving with conditions, or denying the application.

The approving agency resolution may contain conditions which need to be complied with before building permits are issued. In addition, any required changes or additions to the construction plans must also be completed and accepted by the Department of Building.

After the site plan is approved by the approving agency, any subsequent major changes to the plans must be approved by the agency with site plan jurisdiction.

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Public Safety Department

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1. Is overnight, on-street parking allowed in White Plains?

No. The City has a long-standing ordinance which prohibits parking on the street between the hours of 2:00 AM - 6:00 AM. Seasonally, this helps the city with snow plowing and street cleaning, but it is also important from a public safety perspective. Parking permits for the City's garages and lots are available through the Parking Department for those who need to purchase them. 

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Public Works Department - Street Opening or Sidewalk Permit

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1. How do I apply for a sidewalk permit or a street opening permit?

Contact the DPW Code Enforcement Office at 914-422-1208.

Please review our permit application form. (insert link)

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Recreation & Parks Department

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1. What are your office hours?

Monday - Friday: 8:30 am - 5:15 pm

Saturday: 9 am - 12 pm

2. Where do you go for in person registration?

White Plains Recreation & Parks administration office. 85 Gedney Way, White Plains, NY 10605. 

914.422.1336

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Recreation & Parks Department - Summer Camp

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1. Is lunch provided at Summer Camp?

At Camp Panawok, children must bring their own lunch and beverages. At Camp Quarropas, campers may purchase a lunch or bring their own.

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White Plains Education & Training Center

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1. Is the IT support specialist course free?

Yes, the course is free!

2. Is there a video on White Plains NY ?