NYC Construction Permit Checklist
Everything you need to prepare before filing for a building permit in NYC.
Complete Checklist (10 Items)
Hire Licensed Professionals
Engage a Registered Architect (RA) or Professional Engineer (PE) to design and file. For certain trades, hire licensed plumbers, electricians, and other specialists. Verify all licenses are current with DOB.
Conduct Zoning Analysis
Your architect should perform a thorough zoning analysis: permitted use, FAR calculation, height and setback compliance, parking requirements, and any special district regulations. Zoning non-compliance is the most common cause of plan examination rejections.
Check for Open Violations
Review all open DOB violations. Certain open violations may prevent issuance of new permits until resolved. Class 1 (immediately hazardous) violations typically must be addressed before new work can proceed.
Prepare Construction Documents
Prepare complete construction drawings, structural calculations, energy code compliance documentation, and any required special reports. Documents must comply with DOB filing requirements and building code.
Obtain Owner Authorization
The property owner must authorize the filing. For LLC or corporate ownership, verify the authorized signer. DOB requires the PW1 (Plan/Work Application) to be signed by the owner or authorized agent.
Secure Insurance Certificates
Obtain workers compensation (C-105.2) and disability benefits certificates for all contractors. DOB verifies insurance before issuing work permits. Insurance must remain active throughout construction.
File Through DOB NOW
Submit the job application through DOB NOW Build. Upload all required documents. Pay filing fees. Choose professional certification or plan examination track based on project scope.
Respond to Objections
If DOB raises objections during plan examination, respond promptly through DOB NOW. Common objections involve zoning compliance, structural adequacy, egress requirements, and missing documentation.
Pull the Work Permit
Once the job is approved, pull the active work permit through DOB NOW. Post the permit at the job site. Work cannot begin without an active, posted permit.
Schedule Required Inspections
Schedule DOB inspections at required milestones: foundation, framing, mechanical rough-in, insulation, and final. Pass all inspections before proceeding to the next phase.
Obtaining construction permits in NYC is a multi-step process that requires careful preparation and professional guidance. This checklist ensures nothing is missed during the filing and approval process.
RegWatch for Permit Preparation
Before filing, use RegWatch to research the property record: existing violations, permit history, C of O, and zoning. This background research helps your architect prepare a complete and accurate filing, reducing the risk of objections and delays.
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Automate Your Checklist
RegWatch automates many of these checks by aggregating data from DOB, HPD, ACRIS, and other NYC agencies. Save hours on every property.