LPC — Landmarks Preservation Commission

The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) designates and regulates individual landmarks, interior landmarks, scenic landmarks, and historic districts across the five boroughs. LPC currently protects over 37,000 properties in more than 150 historic districts, plus nearly 1,500 individual landmarks.

For property owners and developers, landmark status significantly affects what alterations are permissible. Any exterior change to a designated building — from window replacement to facade restoration — requires LPC approval before DOB will issue a permit. Understanding landmark status is essential for accurate due diligence and development planning.

LPC regulates all designated properties in NYC:

• Individual landmarks: Specific buildings with architectural or historical significance
• Historic districts: Neighborhoods with cohesive architectural character
• Interior landmarks: Significant interior spaces open to the public
• Scenic landmarks: Landscape features like parks and gardens
• Exterior alterations, additions, and new construction in historic districts
• Signage, storefront modifications, and rooftop additions on designated buildings

LPC issues the following approvals:

• Certificate of Appropriateness: Major alterations reviewed at public hearing
• Permit for Minor Work (PMW): Staff-level approval for minor changes
• Certificate of No Effect: Confirmation that proposed work does not affect protected features
• Binding Report: Advisory to City Planning on applications in historic districts

Violations for unauthorized exterior work on landmarks are issued by DOB and adjudicated through ECB/OATH. Common violations include unauthorized window replacement, facade alterations, signage, and rooftop additions.

Unauthorized alterations to landmark buildings can result in DOB violations with fines up to $25,000, plus mandatory restoration to the original condition at the owner's expense. LPC can require removal of non-compliant work, which can cost significantly more than the original alteration. ECB fines for landmark violations tend to be at the higher end of the penalty range.

RegWatch identifies landmark and historic district status in every property profile using PLUTO data. Properties within designated historic districts or with individual landmark status are clearly flagged, alerting buyers and investors to the additional regulatory requirements. This information is cross-referenced with DOB permits to identify potential compliance issues with past alterations.