FAQs

Do you have a question about the Village of Athens?
The following frequently asked questions may help. To ask a question that is not located on this page, please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

How do I report a water leak or street light outage?
Please contact the Village of Athens DPW Garage at (518) 945-2618.  For Street Light outages, if possible please have the pole number handy.

If I detect a Natural Gas oder who do I report it to?
Contact Central Hudson at 800-942-8274.

If I experience an Animal Control issue where do I call?
Please contact the Village of Athens Offices at 518-945-1551, if it is an emergency dial 911.

Is Garbage Removal provided by the Village?
Not at this time, please contact a private garbage removal company.

Where can I take my Recyclables to?
The Recycling Facility is located behind the Firehouse on Third Street. Access to the recycle facility is off of S. Washington St. Extension.
The facility is open Tuesday and Saturday from 9:00am - noon.

Where can I get rid of Brush?
There is a brush pile available for residents of the Village of Athens and it is located behind the Firehouse.  Entrance is on  S. Washington Street Extension.  Open Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 7:00am - 7:00pm.

When and why do I need a building permit?
For more information, Please contact the Village of Athens Code Enforcement Officer, Michael Ragani, at 518-945-1551. Code Enforcement Office hours are from 8:00AM to 10:00AM on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  Also, please refer to the Planning and Zoning section of this website.

Do I need a Permit to have a yard sale?
No, you can hold a yard sale at any time. This year Athens Yard Sale Day will be held on August 27, 2011.

Where can I view a copy of the Village's budget?
You can view a copy of the Village budget at the Village Clerk's office, located at 2 First Street or on this website under financial information.

Who do I contact regarding my property taxes?
Please contact the Town Assessor, Laura Chase at 518-945-1044 with all information and concerns regarding your property taxes. Any questions regarding the Assessor's hours of operation can be answered by calling the Town Clerk at 518-945-1052.

Does the Village have a youth program for the Summer?

Yes. Applications are available through the School and also at the Village Office mid-June. There are usually 2 weeks of Swimming lessons and then 3-4 weeks of recreation.  There is no fee as long as you are a resident of the VIllage or the Town of Athens.  Children must have finished kindergarten in order to register.  Applications for the Summer 2011 program will be available on-line as well.

Does the Village have information on the Pool?

The Athens Pool is a separate entity. It is not owned or managed by the Village of Athens. It is opened for the Summer 2011 season from June 24 through Labor Day. If you have further questions you may call the following numbers in season (518)945-9970 or (518)291-7185 or TDD 1-800-662-1220.  You may also contact the pool by email ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ). 

Download pool application for 2011 season.

 

Who is responsible for maintenance and clearing of the sidewalks?
Individual property owners are responsible for the maintenance and clearing of sidewalks in front of their property.

Does the Village have a complaint form?

Yes. Village residents may file a complaint with the Village Office. Downloand and fill out the complaint form. Send it to Village of Athens, 2 First Street, Athens, N.Y. 12015 or bring it to the office or email it to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Does my sign need to be approved by the Planning Board?
Yes, Please download a Planning and Zoning Application form from our Planning & Zoning page.

Do I need a work permit and planning approval to replace my fence or to construct a detached storage building, garage or shed?
Yes, Please Download a Planning and Zoning Application form from our Planning & Zoning page.

Does the Village have a Comprehensive Plan and how can I review this?
Yes, Please refer to the Business page for our Comprehensive Plan.

Does the Village of Athens have a Dog Park?
Yes, The Dog Park is located at the Bunker Hill Park on Union Street, Athens.

Can I launch my boat from Athens?
Yes, Athens has a N.Y.S Boat Launch north of the Village.
Also, kayaks and canoes may be launched at the new 4th street boat launch.

How can i reserve the Gazebo at the Riverfront Park for special events?  the Community Center gym?

Download a permit application, fill it out and either bring it to the village office, email it, fax it or send it prior to a village Board Meeting.  The Village Board will review it at their next Board Meeting and you will be notified as to whether you have been placed on the

calendar.  APPLICATION FOR USE OF VILLAGE FACILITIES.

Can Village residents doing rehabilitation work on older homes receive a NEW YORK STATE HOMEOWNER REHABILITATION TAX CREDIT?

Residents may be able to qualify for this tax incentive if they are doing rehab work on historic residential structures. Below are some websites which will provide you with the  info you will need:


If you do not find the information you are looking for, please contact:

Village of Athens
2 First Street, Athens
518-945-1551
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it