Who regulates NYC construction
| Agency | What it handles for homeowners | Our guide |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Buildings (DOB) | Building permits, plan approval, inspections, façade inspections (Local Law 11), ADU filings | DOB permits |
| Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) | Home Improvement Contractor and Salesperson licenses | HIC license |
| Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) | Work on designated landmarks and in historic districts | LPC permits |
| Department of Transportation (DOT) | Sidewalk inspections, violations and sidewalk permits | Sidewalk violations |
| Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) | Asbestos rules and forms, water and sewer connections | Asbestos before permits |
NYC construction codes vs. New York State codes
The rest of New York State follows the Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code; the 2025 edition took effect for new permit applications on December 31, 2025. New York City instead enforces the 2022 New York City Construction Codes, including its own Building Code and energy code. If you read advice written for upstate or for "New York" generally, check that it applies inside the five boroughs.
What to expect in each borough
Manhattan
Most residential work happens inside co-ops and condos, so the building's alteration agreement and board approval set the schedule as much as DOB does. Many neighborhoods are historic districts, and tall buildings fall under Local Law 11 façade inspections.
Brooklyn
Brownstones and brick row houses dominate many neighborhoods. Expect masonry and stoop repair, roof and parapet work, and — in brownstone historic districts — LPC review of façade, window and rooftop changes.
Queens
Large numbers of one- and two-family homes make Queens a center for basement work, additions and potential accessory dwelling units. Basement and cellar ADUs are not allowed in designated flood-risk areas, which matters along the coast and in low-lying neighborhoods.
The Bronx
A mix of multi-family buildings, row houses and detached homes. Owners of larger buildings deal with façade inspections and multiple-dwelling rules; owners of row houses face the same roofing, masonry and sidewalk issues as Brooklyn.
Staten Island
The most suburban borough: detached homes with driveways, decks, fences and yards. Flood-zone rules affect many shoreline properties, and residential contractors still need a DCWP license as in the rest of the city.
A quick NYC project checklist
- Check whether the work needs a DOB permit — most structural, plumbing, gas, electrical and egress changes do.
- Look up your property for landmark status, flood zone and open violations before design starts.
- Hire a DCWP-licensed home improvement contractor and confirm insurance.
- For co-ops and condos, get the alteration agreement and board approval timeline early.
- Arrange an asbestos assessment where required before DOB permits are issued.
- Keep sidewalk, scaffolding and debris rules in mind for exterior work.
This guide summarizes official rules for general information. It is not legal advice. Rules and fees change — confirm with the agency before you act.
Frequently asked questions
Does New York City use the New York State building code?
No. NYC enforces its own construction codes (currently the 2022 NYC Construction Codes). The State Uniform Code applies outside the city.
Who issues NYC construction permits?
The Department of Buildings, mostly through its DOB NOW online system. For alterations to 1–2 family homes, a Registered Design Professional typically files on the owner's behalf.
Do NYC construction contractors need a license?
Contractors doing residential home improvement work need a Home Improvement Contractor license from DCWP. Electricians and plumbers hold separate city licenses.
