GENERAL SOURCES AND GUIDES
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Public Resources
ZOLA NYC’s Zoning & Land Use Map
Building Information System (BIS)​
NYC Landmarks Rules & Regulations
HPD – Property Records (Residential)​FDNY - Public Resources​
NYC - OATH - Violations & Hearings​
Last updated: September, 2022
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Covers how to research a building's BIN, Block/Lot, zoning district, and DOB filing history using NYC tools like BIS, DOB NOW, and ZOLA.
Explains when a Certificate of Occupancy is required, what it certifies, and how to obtain or amend it through an ALT1 filing.
Introduces zoning studies, use groups, and how zoning maps inform FAR, density, permitted uses, and design limitations.
Outlines bulk envelope rules including lot coverage, FAR, height, yards, and other dimensional controls from the NYC Zoning Resolution.
Discusses how to determine which version of the NYC Construction Code applies (e.g. 2022 vs prior code) based on scope and filing date.
Describes what constitutes a change of use or occupancy and how that triggers filing requirements and possible Certificate of Occupancy updates.
Defines means of egress components and requirements including number of exits, travel distance, and exit access vs exit discharge.
Egress Compliance for Existing Buildings
Explains how existing buildings must comply with Chapter 10 of the NYC Building Code and what exceptions or upgrades are required.
Details Place of Assembly triggers, occupant load thresholds, filing requirements, and documentation including PA drawings and inspections.
Alterations of Existing Buildings
Breaks down the difference between ALT1 and ALT2 filings, DOB review pathways, professional certification vs standard review, and typical interior renovation issues.
Outlines the transition from BIS to DOB NOW, new login and filing processes, project roles, and common issues in digital submissions.
Filing Strategy for Interior Alterations
Provides an overview of filing pathways, inspection coordination, and how to efficiently file an ALT2 using TR1/TR8 and ProCert.