NYC Building Permit Cost Estimator
Estimate total DOB permit and professional costs by project type.
A planning range, not a quote — actual cost depends on scope, square footage, special inspections, and whether BSA variances, Landmarks review, or FDNY/DEP/DOT permits apply. DOB filing fees themselves are modest; professional fees drive the total.
DOB Filing Fee Breakdown
DOB filing fees depend on the job type and scope:
- New Building: $0.12/sq ft (min $280) + plan exam fee if applicable
- Alteration Type 1: $280 base + additional based on scope
- Alteration Type 2: $280 base
- Alteration Type 3: $150-$280
- Plumbing: ~$100 per fixture
- Electrical: Based on amperage
- Sign: $150-$500
Professional Fees
The largest cost component is often professional fees:
- Architect/Engineer Design: $2,000-$50,000+ depending on project complexity
- Structural Engineer: $1,500-$10,000 for calculations and analysis
- Expeditor: $500-$5,000 for filing management
- Energy Code Consultant: $500-$3,000
- Site Safety Manager: $200-$500/day for larger projects
Special Inspections and Testing
- Structural steel inspection: $2,000-$10,000
- Concrete testing: $1,000-$5,000
- Sprinkler/standpipe testing: $500-$2,000
- Energy code testing (blower door, etc.): $500-$2,000
Total Cost Estimates by Project Type
- Kitchen/bathroom renovation: $3,000-$8,000 in permit/professional costs
- Full apartment renovation: $5,000-$15,000
- Commercial build-out: $10,000-$30,000
- New residential building: $50,000-$200,000+
- Major commercial construction: $100,000-$500,000+
Hidden and Overlooked Costs
Budget for these commonly overlooked items: DOB plan examination re-review fees, post-approval amendment fees, BSA applications for variances ($5,000-$20,000), Landmarks Preservation Commission filings for historic districts, DEP sewer connection approvals, DOT highway permit fees for sidewalk work, and FDNY plan review fees for fire protection systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get a building permit in NYC?
Total costs range from $3,000-$8,000 for a simple renovation to $50,000+ for new construction. DOB fees are relatively small; the majority of cost is professional fees (architect, engineer, expeditor) and required inspections.
Can I file for a permit myself?
Most NYC permits require a licensed architect (RA) or professional engineer (PE) to prepare and file. Homeowners can file for certain minor work in owner-occupied 1-2 family homes, but this is limited to specific work types.