Building Responsibly

Building Responsibly on the Barrier Beach.

Construction and renovation projects must protect the dunes, wildlife, and natural beauty that define our community.

Before beginning any construction or major repair, check current NYSDEC and Town of Babylon permit requirements. Use licensed contractors familiar with coastal regulations and avoid disturbing dunes or native vegetation. Keep work areas tidy and remove debris promptly to prevent it from blowing into neighboring properties or the bay. Building responsibly helps preserve the safety and character of our beach community.

Building responsibly in environmentally sensitive areas—particularly those near public or private drinking water wells and tidal wetlands —is a critical commitment to protecting human health and local ecosystems.

Best Practices for Construction Near Sensitive Areas

When developing land near potable water sources, adherence to strict best practices minimizes the risk of construction-related contamination:

– Implement Robust Erosion and Sediment Controls: Prevent topsoil and debris from washing into nearby wells or waterways.

– Silt Fences and Barriers: Install physical barriers around the perimeter of the construction site to trap sediment.

– Stabilized Construction Entrances: Use crushed rock entrances to minimize tracking mud onto public roads and surrounding areas.

– Vegetative Buffers: Maintain or install vegetative buffer zones around wells and waterways to filter runoff naturally.

– Proper Material Storage: Store chemicals, fuel, and building materials securely and away from drainage paths to prevent leaks and spills from reaching the water table.

Navigating Building Permits and Regulatory Compliance

Building responsibly requires navigating necessary permits and adhering to local, county, and state regulations designed to protect sensitive environments.

Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS): Ensure all plans comply with local sanitary codes, especially concerning the siting and installation of new septic systems or I/A OWTS, which must maintain adequate separation distances from water supply wells.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC): Depending on the scope of the project, location within a regulated wetland area, or proximity to coastal erosion hazard areas, you may need specific permits from the NYSDEC for activities that disturb land or modify protected natural resources.

Local Municipalities: Always check with your local town or village building department for required variances, building permits, and zoning approvals.

By following these best practices and securing all necessary permits, builders can minimize environmental impact and safeguard valuable drinking water resources for the community.

New Flood Code Regulations

On January 1, 2026 New York State adopted new flood code and rising sea level regulations. Homes that are mapped in the 500-year (0.02%) flood zone are subject to flood code construction requirements. The Town of Babylon conducted a review of their flood maps and found this will affect a few homes on Oak Island, Oak Beach (west end) and West Gilgo Beach. Residents can contact TOB to receive a written flood determination letter at 631-422-7640 or at DEC@townofbabylonny.gov.

The State has also adopted new sea level rise requirements that will mandate new home and home elevation projects go higher than previously. They have introduced Required Flood Elevation (RFE), which is Base Flood Elevation + 2 Feet + 18 inches.

You can read more about the updated regulations on the National Association of Floodplain Managers here.