NYC Building Permit: Complete Application Guide 2025

Obtaining a building permit in NYC is required for virtually all construction, renovation, and alteration work. In 2024, the NYC Department of Buildings processed over 175,000 permit applications with an average approval time of 8-12 weeks. Working without a proper permit can result in Stop Work Orders, fines of $2,500-$25,000, and serious legal complications. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about NYC building permits in 2025.

What Is a Building Permit?

A building permit is official authorization from the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) to perform construction, alteration, demolition, or other work on a property. Permits ensure that all work complies with NYC Building Code, Zoning Resolution, and safety standards.

Legal Authority: NYC Administrative Code Title 28, NYC Building Code 2022

Who Issues Permits: NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) via DOB NOW electronic filing system

When Do You Need a Building Permit?

Building permits are required for:

New construction: New buildings, additions, vertical/horizontal extensions
Alterations: Structural changes, facade work, interior renovations affecting structure
Demolition: Full or partial building demolition
Plumbing work: New installations, replacements, re-piping
Electrical work: Service upgrades, panel replacements, new circuits
Mechanical work: HVAC installation, boiler replacement, exhaust systems
Fire protection: Sprinkler systems, fire alarm installations
Elevator work: New installations, modernization, safety upgrades
Facade work: Exterior repairs, cladding, window replacement (some cases)
Structural changes: Beam removal, column work, foundation repairs

Work That Doesn't Require Permits: Painting, wallpapering, flooring replacement (non-structural), minor repairs, cosmetic updates. However, always verify with DOB as requirements can vary.

Types of Building Permits

Alteration Type 1 (ALT-1)

Scope: Major alterations affecting use, egress, or occupancy
Examples: Adding/removing stairs, changing building use, cellar conversions, vertical extensions
Requirements: Full plans by Registered Architect (RA) or Professional Engineer (PE), plan examination
Timeline: 8-16 weeks

Alteration Type 2 (ALT-2)

Scope: Minor alterations not affecting use, egress, or occupancy
Examples: Partition changes, plumbing/electrical work, HVAC installation
Requirements: Plans by RA/PE (some work may qualify for professional certification)
Timeline: 4-8 weeks

Alteration Type 3 (ALT-3)

Scope: Minor work like one-for-one equipment replacement
Examples: Boiler replacement, water heater installation, minor repairs
Requirements: Simplified application, may not require full plans
Timeline: 2-4 weeks

New Building (NB)

Scope: Ground-up construction of new structures
Requirements: Comprehensive plans, zoning analysis, structural calculations, environmental review
Timeline: 6-18 months

Demolition (DM)

Scope: Full or partial building demolition
Requirements: Asbestos survey, neighbor notification, safety plan, dust control plan
Timeline: 4-8 weeks

Learn more about NYC permit types in our comprehensive guide.

Application Process: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Determine Permit Requirements

Consult with a licensed architect or engineer to determine:

Type of permit needed (ALT-1, ALT-2, ALT-3, NB, DM)
Zoning compliance requirements
Whether work qualifies for professional certification (faster approval)
Special inspections or testing requirements

Step 2: Hire Licensed Professionals

Most permits require:

Registered Architect (RA) or Professional Engineer (PE) to prepare and file plans
Licensed contractor to perform work (verify license in DOB NOW)
Licensed plumber/electrician for trade work
Special inspectors for structural steel, concrete, façade work

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Standard requirements include:

Architectural plans: Floor plans, elevations, sections (stamped by RA)
Structural plans: Foundation, framing, load calculations (stamped by PE)
MEP plans: Mechanical, electrical, plumbing systems
Zoning analysis: Demonstrating code compliance
Certificate of Occupancy: Current C of O showing existing conditions
Property deed or lease: Proof of ownership/authorization
Asbestos report: Required for demolition and major alterations

Step 4: File Application in DOB NOW

All applications must be filed electronically:

Create account at DOB NOW
Upload all required documents (PDF format, max 50MB per file)
Pay initial filing fees (calculated based on scope of work)
Submit application for DOB review

See our guide on NYC Department of Buildings for detailed filing instructions.

Step 5: Plan Examination

DOB reviews plans for code compliance:

Initial review: 4-12 weeks depending on complexity
Objections: DOB may issue objections requiring corrections
Resubmissions: Each correction round adds 2-4 weeks
Professional certification: Qualified work can skip full examination (faster)

Step 6: Pay Permit Fees

Once plans are approved:

Pay remaining permit fees (based on project value and square footage)
Download approved permit from DOB NOW
Receive job number for tracking

Step 7: Post Permit at Job Site

Required by law:

Display permit in visible location at property entrance
Keep copy of approved plans on-site
Ensure contractor licenses posted

Step 8: Schedule Inspections

DOB inspections required at key milestones:

Foundation inspection: Before pouring concrete
Framing inspection: Before closing walls
Rough-in inspections: Plumbing, electrical, mechanical
Final inspection: Upon work completion

Schedule inspections online in DOB NOW at least 48 hours in advance.

Step 9: Sign-Off and Close Permit

After final inspection approval:

Submit sign-off documents from RA/PE
Obtain Certificate of Completion
Update Certificate of Occupancy (if use changed)
Close permit in DOB NOW

Permit Costs and Timelines (2025)

Permit Type	Filing Fee	Permit Fee	Timeline
ALT-1 (Major)	$1,000-$3,000	$2,000-$15,000+	8-16 weeks
ALT-2 (Minor)	$500-$1,500	$1,000-$5,000	4-8 weeks
ALT-3 (Equipment)	$300-$800	$500-$2,000	2-4 weeks
New Building	$3,000-$10,000+	$10,000-$100,000+	6-18 months
Demolition	$800-$2,000	$1,500-$5,000	4-8 weeks

Additional Costs: Architect/engineer fees ($5,000-$50,000+), contractor fees, inspection fees, expediting services (optional).

Penalties for Working Without a Permit

Working without a proper permit results in severe consequences:

Stop Work Order: All work must cease immediately; requires sidewalk shed if unsafe conditions exist
Violations: Class 1 violations with base fines of $2,500-$25,000
ECB Summons: Additional civil penalties through OATH hearings
Daily Penalties: Fines of $500-$1,000 per day until violation cured
Property Liens: Unpaid fines become liens, preventing sale/refinancing
Legalization Costs: After-the-fact permits cost 2-3× normal permit fees
Insurance Issues: Homeowner's insurance may not cover unpermitted work damages
Sale Complications: Unpermitted work must be disclosed; can kill deals

Learn more about work without permit penalties and legalization process.

Common Permit Application Mistakes

1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Plans

Most common reason for rejections. Ensure plans are detailed, dimensioned, and code-compliant. Hire experienced professionals.

2. Missing Supporting Documents

Applications rejected for missing: existing C of O, asbestos report, zoning analysis, owner authorization. Prepare complete package upfront.

3. Starting Work Before Approval

Never start work while application is under review. Wait for full approval and permit issuance.

4. Hiring Unlicensed Contractors

Verify all contractor licenses in DOB NOW. Unlicensed work voids permits and creates violations.

5. Missing Inspections

Skipping required inspections results in permit revocation and violations. Schedule all inspections in advance.

6. Letting Permits Expire

Permits expire after 12 months if work not substantially completed. Renew annually to avoid violations and additional fees.

Expediting Your Permit

Options to speed up approval:

Professional Certification

Qualified work can skip full plan examination if certified by licensed professional. Reduces timeline by 50-75%.

Pre-Filing Consultation

DOB offers paid consultation to review plans before formal filing. Identifies issues early, reducing objections.

Expeditor Services

Licensed expediters navigate DOB process, respond to objections quickly, coordinate with agencies. Costs $3,000-$15,000+ but can save months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a building permit in NYC?

Simple alterations: 4-8 weeks. Complex projects: 8-16 weeks. New buildings: 6-18 months. Objections add 2-4 weeks per correction cycle.

Can I apply for a permit myself?

Simple work (ALT-3) may be filed by property owner. Most work requires licensed RA or PE to prepare and file plans.

What if my contractor says permits aren't needed?

Never trust contractor assurances. Verify independently with DOB or licensed architect. Property owners are liable for unpermitted work, not contractors.

How much does a building permit cost?

Filing fees: $300-$10,000+. Permit fees: $500-$100,000+ (based on project value and scope). Professional fees: $5,000-$50,000+.

Can I do work while permit application is pending?

No. Starting work before permit approval results in Stop Work Orders and violations. Wait for full approval.

What happens if I get violations during permitted work?

Address violations immediately. Submit correction certifications. Unresolved violations can result in permit suspension and Stop Work Orders.

Related Resources

External Resources

Last updated: November 2025. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with licensed professionals for your specific project.