NYC DOB PERMIT FEE CALCULATOR

NYC DOB Permit Fee Calculator


NYC Building Permit Requirements

In New York City, obtaining a building permit is a crucial step for various construction projects. These include constructing new buildings, adding extensions to existing structures, performing significant reconstructions, and demolishing buildings. Understanding when and why you need a permit can save you time and ensure your project complies with city regulations.

Projects Requiring a Building Permit in NYC

Examples of projects that necessitate a building permit include:

  • Constructing any new residential or commercial structure

  • Converting an existing building for a new purpose

  • Adding extensions to an existing building

  • Demolishing a building

  • Installing large structures, such as ADUs or garages, on existing properties

  • Combining apartments

Do I Need a Building Permit in NYC?

Yes, most construction projects in NYC require a building permit. However, some minor alterations do not need a permit. These include:

  • Painting

  • Plastering

  • Installing new cabinets

  • Replacing plumbing fixtures

  • Resurfacing floors

  • Non-structural roof repairs

  • Emergency work, such as gas leak repairs and stabilizing unsafe structures

Note: Even if a permit is not required for certain projects, the contractor must have a Department of Consumer Affairs Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) license.

How Long Do Building Permits Take in NYC?

The timeline for obtaining a building permit in NYC varies depending on the type of permit:

  • Alt1 (standard filing): 3-4 months

  • Alt1 (self-certification): 3-4 weeks

  • Alt2 (standard filing): 4-6 weeks

  • Landmark approval (standard): 4-6 weeks

  • Landmark approval (expedited): 4-7 business days

How Much Does NYC Building Permit Cost?

The cost of NYC building permits ranges from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, typically assessed based on the square footage of the proposed project. The cost depends on:

  • The type of permit (NB vs. Alt)

  • The size of the proposed construction

  • Any additional speciality permits required

Types of Building Permits in NYC

There are three main types of building permits:

  1. New Building (NB): For constructing new structures.

  2. Alteration-CO (Alt-CO): For significant alterations changing a building’s use, egress, or occupancy.

  3. Alteration (Alt): For multiple types of work, do not change the building's use, egress, or occupancy.

Alteration Permits Categories

Alt1 Permits: For major construction affecting use, egress, or occupancy, requiring a new or amended Certificate of Occupancy (CO). Examples:

  • Converting a building from commercial to residential

  • Adding floors to a building

  • Establishing a Place of Assembly

Alt2 Permits: For interior demolition or minor renovations not impacting use, egress, or occupancy.

Alt3 Permits: For minor alterations not affecting use, egress, or occupancy. Examples:

  • Erecting scaffolding

  • Putting up tents

  • Cutting a curb

Specialty Permits

Additional permits may be required for specific work types, such as:

  • After Hours Variance: For work outside standard hours

  • Asbestos Abatement: For meeting asbestos removal requirements

  • Boiler: To ensure compliance with Building Code

  • Certificate of Occupancy: Certifies the legal use and occupancy of a building

  • Electrical: Required for most electrical work

  • Plumbing: Must be obtained by a Licensed Master Plumber or Fire Suppression Piping Contractor

How to Obtain a NYC Building Permit

A licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) must submit an application via the DOB NOW platform, including all required documents and fees. The Department of Buildings (DOB) will review the application for compliance with safety standards and applicable laws. Once approved, the permit must be posted at the worksite.

Checking and Renewing Building Permits

You can check your permit status online via the DOB NOW platform or by calling the DOB office in the relevant borough. Most permits last one year but can be extended if the applicant renews their license or insurance before expiration. Permits can be renewed if there has been activity within two years.

When it comes to building or renovating in New York City, understanding the Department of Buildings (DOB) fees is crucial for accurate project budgeting and planning. The DOB fees are calculated based on the total construction cost of the project, which encompasses a wide range of expenses related to the building process. This article aims to provide an overview of how New York City DOB fees are estimated and what factors contribute to the construction cost.

Construction Cost: The Foundation of DOB Fees The construction cost is the primary factor in determining the DOB fees for a project. It includes all expenses directly related to the construction process, from materials and labour to equipment and utilities. The construction cost is typically estimated by a licensed architect or engineer based on the project's scope, complexity, and location.

When estimating the construction cost, professionals consider various elements such as:

  1. Materials: The cost of all materials required for the project, including structural components (e.g., concrete, steel, wood), finishes (e.g., drywall, flooring, paint), and fixtures (e.g., plumbing, electrical, HVAC).

  2. Labor: The cost of hiring contractors, subcontractors, and skilled workers to complete the construction work, including their wages, benefits, and insurance.

  3. Equipment: The cost of renting or purchasing necessary equipment, such as scaffolding, cranes, and tools.

  4. Utilities: The cost of temporary utilities needed during the construction process, such as electricity, water, and waste disposal.

  5. Professional fees: The cost of hiring architects, engineers, and other consultants to design, plan, and oversee the project.

  6. Permits and inspections: The cost of obtaining required permits and scheduling necessary inspections throughout the construction process.

It is important to note that the construction cost does not include certain expenses such as land acquisition, financing costs, or interior furnishings. These items are typically excluded when calculating the DOB fees.

Estimating DOB Fees Based on Construction Cost Once the construction cost has been determined, it is used to estimate the DOB fees for the project. The DOB fees are calculated using a sliding scale based on the total construction cost. As the construction cost increases, the percentage of the DOB fees decreases.

For example, as of 2021, the DOB fees for new buildings and alterations are calculated as follows:

  • For the first $100,000 of construction cost: $0.25 per square foot

  • For the next $900,000 of construction cost: $0.20 per square foot

  • For the next $2,000,000 of construction cost: $0.15 per square foot

  • For the next $2,000,000 of construction cost: $0.10 per square foot

  • For construction costs over $5,000,000: $0.05 per square foot

These fees are subject to change and may be updated by the DOB periodically. It is essential to consult the latest DOB fee schedule or use an up-to-date permit fee calculator to ensure accurate estimation of the fees.

Additional Factors Affecting DOB Fees In addition to the construction cost, there are other factors that can impact the DOB fees for a project. These include:

  1. Project type: The DOB fees may vary depending on the type of project, such as new construction, alteration, or demolition.

  2. Occupancy group: The fees may differ based on the occupancy group of the building, such as residential, commercial, or industrial.

  3. Special inspections: Certain projects may require special inspections, such as those related to fire protection systems or structural elements, which can incur additional fees.

  4. Expediting fees: If a project requires expedited review or processing, additional fees may apply.

Navigating the DOB Fee Process Estimating and budgeting for DOB fees can be a complex process, especially for those unfamiliar with the intricacies of the New York City building regulations. Working with experienced professionals, such as architects and expediters, can help ensure that the construction cost and DOB fees are accurately estimated and accounted for in the project budget.

Additionally, using a reliable permit fee calculator can provide a quick and easy way to estimate the DOB fees based on the construction cost. These tools are designed to take into account the latest DOB fee schedules and regulations, making it easier for property owners and developers to plan and budget for their projects.

Conclusion Understanding how New York City DOB fees are estimated is essential for anyone planning a building or renovation project in the city. By having a clear grasp of what constitutes the construction cost and how it is used to calculate the DOB fees, property owners and developers can create more accurate project budgets and avoid unexpected expenses.

Consulting with experienced professionals and utilizing permit fee calculator tools can further streamline the process and ensure that the DOB fees are properly accounted for. With careful planning and attention to detail, navigating the complex world of New York City building regulations and fees can be a manageable and successful endeavor.