Buffalo City Hall to reopen

Residents will be able to access a majority of city services on a walk-in basis for first time since mid-March 2020

Mayor Byron Brown announced Buffalo City Hall will be open to the public on a walk-in basis starting Monday, July 26.

“This is a huge and exciting milestone in the City of Buffalo’s COVID recovery process,” he said.” While many city services were available by appointment-only for the past year, starting Monday, July 26, the doors of City Hall will reopen to the public. Masks will be required for unvaccinated visitors, but no proof of vaccination will be required. We believe our residents will do the right thing to protect themselves and their fellow residents.”

A press release stated, “Masks are still recommended for those who are fully vaccinated but will not be required. Security will be relying on the honor system.

“Throughout the pandemic, city staffers have continued to work on behalf of Buffalo residents both remotely and in-person to maintain a high level of services.”

Limited in-person services have been available since July 6, 2020, with uninterrupted online services.

“I look forward to seeing the public back in City Hall,” Brown said. “Our employees are also looking forward to expanded in-person interaction with our residents.”

The following city departments will be open to the public without an appointment, effective July 26:

• Treasury
• Tax and Assessment
• User Fee
• Parking Violations
• Permit and Inspection Services
• Public Works
• Real Estate
• Planning
• Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency
• Civil Service
• Corporation Counsel
• City Clerk

In addition to walk-in services, City Hall’s lobby and the inside of the observation deck will once again be open for visiting and touring. The outer walkway of the observation deck will remain closed for repairs from damage it sustained during a recent storm.

Buffalo City Hall hours will be 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays, with access through all public entrances. The City Clerk’s office recommends the public call ahead to 716-851-5444 for marriage licenses.

This announcement does not pertain to Board of Education offices located in City Hall.