Noteworthy Things & FAQ

Noteworthy Things About LaFayette

LaFayette offers a balance of rural, small town community with easy access to the conveniences of city and suburban living. Situated across hills and valleys, it is surrounded by fabulous views. It is also located along Route 81, with quick on-off ramps heading north (to Syracuse, Lake Ontario, Canada), and heading south (to Cortland, Binghamton, Pennsylvania). The center of town is at the  crossing of the two longest roads in the country—Route 20 and Route 11—spanning all the way from  Canada to Florida and the East Coast to the West.

While LaFayette residents feel like they are in the beautiful country, it’s a short drive to:

Syracuse (businesses, University, hospitals) — 12-15 minutes
Green Hills and Wegman’s (superior grocery shops) — 15-20 minutes
Hancock International Airport — 20-30 minutes
Lake communities Skaneateles or Cazenovia — 25-30 minutes
Homer/Cortland — 30 minutes
Ithaca — 60 minutes

An easy 4-5 hour road trip takes residents to exciting large cities: New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, Toronto, Ottawa.

FAQ's & A's (Frequently asked questions & answers)

Where do I get a marriage/hunting/fishing/dog license?

            Marriage licenses – Your Town or City Clerk may issue a marriage license for New York State, so long as that is you intend on getting married in New York State. There is a link explaining the necessary information needed along with a questionnaire provided on this website. Please call for an appointment with the Town Clerk to complete the license. The fee is $40.00.

            Hunting/fishing licenses are issued by a certified Dept. of Conservation Agent such as the Town Clerk, and are available in her office. For first time licensing you will need proof of ID (ex. Driver’s license) and your hunter’s safety certification in order to get one. You may also visit the DEC website for any further questions.

            Dog licenses – Need to be obtained in the Town in which you reside. An application is available via this website. You will need to present proof of rabies, spaying/neutering (if applicable) with the completed application, along with your check, cash or money order for payment. This may be done in person at the Town Clerk’s Office or by mail.

How do I get a handicap parking permit?

            Handicap permit forms are usually available at your physician’s office or may be obtained at the Town Clerks office. Your Physician completes Part 1 and 2 of the New York State Dept. of Motor Vehicles Application (MV-664.1 form).    You sign and bring that form to the Town Hall (Town in which you reside) and the Town Clerk will issue your permit. You will also need to bring your driver’s license with you.

Where do I get a building permit?

            The forms may be downloaded or picked up at the Town Clerk’s Office, by her or the Building and & Code Enforcement Officer.

Do I need a permit to put an addition on my house?

            Yes, any addition, demolition, swimming pool, shed, deck installation, etc. needs a building permit.

My garbage didn’t get picked up. Who do I call?

            Call Dependable Disposal, directly at Phone: 315-472-7455 or Phone: 315-689-9588

Can I get a passport without going to a downtown government building?

            You may obtain a passport at the Town Clerk’s office. You may go to the website travel.state.gov for any questions and to download the Application for a U.S. Passport (DH-11) After you have all the necessary paperwork, please call for an appointment with the Town Clerk/Passport Acceptance Agent and she will complete the Application process and mail to the proper Passport Agency.

Is there a notary service available to me as a resident?

             Local notary services are available in the Town Clerk’s Office, the Justice Court, and the LaFayette School District Office.