About building permit actions

Summary

This section of EveryBlock lists building permit actions from the New York Department of Buildings (DOB). This includes actions taken regarding proposed structures, alterations, demolitions, places of assembly and subdivision of property.

Where we get the data

The data is retrieved from the DOB's Job Weekly Statistical Reports.

How often we get the data

The DOB updates its data weekly and EveryBlock publishes it shortly thereafter.

About building permit actions in general

For new buildings and alterations, the DOB reviews plans to ensure that they comply with building codes and meet current safety standards and zoning requirements. Once plans are approved, a contractor or a contractor's representative may apply for a construction work permit.

Some construction applications must be filed with DOB by state-licensed professional engineer registered architect. Most applications require the submission of plans along with forms. The plans and forms are usually submitted to the DOB on behalf of the building owner.

Construction categories include new buildings and three types of alterations. In some cases, more than one permit could be required. For example, there are separate permits for plumbing and construction work. For electrical work, permits are required from the DOB's Bureau of Electrical Control.

The timeframe for approval varies. For more information on the process, see How to file an application and get a permit.

A permit's duration is based on the length of a contractor's insurance. But it cannot exceed one year. With the exception of sidewalk sheds, permits can be renewed by mail.

Fees vary depending on the scope of the work. Cost of permits for new buildings are based on the size of the structure. Alteration fees are based on a percentage of the proposed cost of construction.

Working without a permit can result in violations, summonses, court appearances, fines and civil penalties for building owners and those doing the work. To report work that is being performed without a permit, call 3-1-1, or log on to the DOB's Web site.

Permits for demolitions work differently. Prior to commencement of demolition, the demolition contractor must provide 24-hour notification to the DOB's Building Enforcement Safety Team. The premises must be enclosed, a sidewalk shed must be erected if required, and all glass must be removed.

For all buildings 15 feet in height or higher, a sign stating the contractors' name, address and phone number must be posted. No demolition of a building or structure shall commence until a permit has been obtained from the DOB.

The contractor must post a sign in readily visible location on the front of the building to be demolished with the following information: name of the contractor, business address, business telephone number. For more, read the DOB's Rules And Regulations Relating To Commencement Of Demolition available on this page.

Complaints pertaining to demolition sites can be reported by calling 311.

A place of assembly is an enclosed room or space in which 75 or more persons gather for religious, recreational, educational, political or social purposes or for the consumption of food or drink, or for similar group activities or which is designed for use by 75 or more persons gathered for any of the above reasons, but excluding such spaces in dwelling units; or an outdoor space in which 200 or more persons gather for any of the above reasons or which is designed for use by 200 or more persons gathered for any of the above reasons.

It is unlawful to use or occupy any building or premises or part thereof as a place of assembly without a permit. The permit shall be for a term of one year. Permits must be posted in a conspicuous place in the place of assembly which is covered by such permit.

Go to the DOB's Forms and Permits page for public assembly applications and instruction forms.

For more, check out Construction Permits on the DOB's Building Knowledge page.

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