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There are many factors to consider before embarking on the journey of the regulatory filing process. Prior to jumping into schematic design, use the following NYC public recourses to help you prepare an efficient & compliant filing strategy. SEARCH PROPERTY RECORDS PROPERTY RECORDS & MAPS Architects/Design Firms are typically the first consultants engaged at the start of an alteration or new development project. There are many factors to consider before embarking on the journey of the regulatory filing process. PRIOR to jumping into schematic design, the Architect can use the following NYC public recourses to help streamline and prepare a filing strategy. DCP – ZOLA NYC’s Zoning & Land Use Map NYC’s Zoning and Land Use Map is a very resourceful tool when obtaining property information including zoning districts, boundaries, tax lot descriptions, historical data etc. Using and cross-referencing DOB-BIS and DCP-ZOLA will typically provide the most up-to-date information that corresponds directly with records on file with NYC Governing Agencies. DOF – Tax Maps Use DCP-ZOLA webpage for a direct link to access recorded Department of Finance Tax Maps. In the pre-design phase of the project and/or for properties that do not have an updated architectural or title survey, the Architect can make use of the dimensions specified on the recorded tax map needed for a preliminary Zoning Analysis. DOB – PROPERTY PROFILE (BIS or DOBNOW) Search property records to get the basic information needed for about a specific building/property. Building Information System (BIS) or DOBNOW are public portals of building and property records containing information needed to prepare a due- diligence and appropriate Filing Strategy. BIS is also the tool used to search documents specific to a previously filed DOB application. BIN #: Building Identification: Lots with more than 1 building will have multiple BIN #’s. You want to AVOID filing an application under the wrong BIN number. This can cause delays and/or may require that you REFILE such application under the correct BIN. Tax Block/Tax Lot: Find information about a specific tax lot via DOF-Tax Maps. A tax lot may also represent a Zoning Lot. Sometimes a property may have multiple tax lots on a single Zoning Lot. Yes, there is a difference. To confirm, refer to a site survey of the property or the Zoning Summary/Analysis, if available. Community Board (C.B.): The first number is the Borough (1-MN, 2-BX, 3-BK, 4-QN, 5-SI). The last number is the actual C.B. within the specific Borough. In this case, “104” this is Community Bd. 4 in the borough of Manhattan (Chelsea & Clinton/Hell’s Kitchen). It’s possible to cross paths with CB’s during a Landmarks Review Process for a Landmarked Building requiring Commission approval & hearings. Certificates of Occupancy (CofO): This is the first step to verifying whether an Existing Building has a valid CofO on record. Sometimes there are multiple records available and they are NOT in any particular order on DOB-BIS system. The fewer CofO’s listed, the easier it will be to select the correct and latest CofO or Temporary CofO (TCO) on file. GOVERNING AGENCIES HAVING JURISDICTION The information obtained from DOB-BIS Property Profile includes applicable restrictions for the property that may require approvals, in addition to DOB, from other regulatory agencies having jurisdiction. DOB - Department of Buildings DOB-HUB - NYC Development-HUB LPC - Landmarks Preservation Conservation DCP - Department of City Planning DEP - Depart. of Environmental Protection OER - Office of Environmental Remediation FDNY - NYC Fire Department DOF - Department of Finance ECB - OATH & Environmental Control Board DOT - Department of Transportation HPD - NYC Housing Preservation & Development MOPD - Mayors office for People w/ Disabilities TA - Transit Authority/MTA Approval from NYC Governing Agencies varies with each building, property and scope of work. Many times, when approval from multiple agencies is required, such agency (i.e. Landmarks, and/or OER) shall approve the proposed alteration PRIOR to DOB approval. A simple way to verify which agency will require a review and approval of the proposed filing drawings is to refer to the property profile on DOB – Building Information System (BIS). Many properties within the 5 Boroughs of NYC typically require approval from more than one agency as shown in the following examples: DOB approval only required Multiple agency approval required

Assembly spaces per Building Codes and DOB regulations are spaces of gathering with 75 or more occupants engaging in an activity such as restaurants, lecture halls, stadiums... PLACE OF ASSEMBLY CERTIFICATE OF OPERATION (PACO) Under the NYC Building Code and Department of Buildings (DOB) regulations, a Place of Assembly (PA) is generally a space where 75 or more people gather indoors or on a roof terrace, or where 200 or more people gather outdoors. Common examples include restaurants, lecture halls, theaters, stadiums, banquet halls, amusement venues, museums, and similar assembly spaces. Before legally operating a Place of Assembly, the space generally requires a Place of Assembly Certificate of Operation (PACO), a posted occupant capacity sign, and compliance with all applicable DOB and FDNY requirements. The required filing path depends on the building's approved history, the proposed use, the occupant load, and whether the scope of work affects egress, fire protection, accessibility, seating layouts, or other regulated conditions. ESTABLISHING A NEW PLACE OF ASSEMBLY Establishing a new Place of Assembly generally requires obtaining a new Certificate of Occupancy through an Alteration Type-1 (ALT-CO) application. When consulting on projects that involve establishing a new Place of Assembly within an existing building, I typically recommend the following filing strategy. 1. File an Alteration Type-1 (ALT-CO) Application If the building already has an approved Alteration Type-1 application on file, I generally recommend maintaining that application and filing an amendment to incorporate the proposed Place of Assembly use or occupancy, subject to authorization by the building owner. Unless amending an existing "no-work" application, I typically recommend filing the Alteration Type-1 as a single OT-Architectural work type, limiting the construction scope to modifications involving means of egress, fire-rated separations, and required demising partitions. 2. File the Place of Assembly Application (No Work) The Place of Assembly application should generally be filed and approved simultaneously with the associated Alteration Type-1 application. Although commonly filed as a "No Work" application, the Place of Assembly drawings should accurately reflect the proposed assembly layout, including: Furniture and seating layout; Occupant load calculations; Means of egress plans; Exit signage and emergency lighting; Any permanent or movable installations located within the assembly space 3. File the Separate Construction Alteration Depending on the project schedule, construction obligations, lease requirements, and overall scope, I often recommend filing the physical build-out separately under its own Alteration application with the appropriate Architectural, MEP, Structural, and related DOB work types. Doing so may help streamline construction while allowing the Certificate of Occupancy and Place of Assembly approval process to continue independently. That said, construction affecting the proposed Place of Assembly should not commence until the proposed Place of Assembly use and occupancy have been approved by the Department of Buildings. ALTERATION OF AN EXISTING PLACE OF ASSEMBLY Before jumping into a project involving the alteration of an existing restaurant, lecture hall, museum, or other assembly space, I typically begin with the following review sequence: 1. Review Existing Property Records Confirm the building's existing legal conditions by reviewing available property records, including the Certificate of Occupancy, prior DOB filings, and any active or expired Place of Assembly permits or Certificates of Operation. 2. Determine Whether a Certificate of Occupancy Exists If there is no active Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) for the building, there may also be no legally established Place of Assembly on record. In those situations, the architect and owner should generally proceed through the standard filing process to obtain a new Certificate of Occupancy while establishing a new Place of Assembly. 3. Existing Assembly Occupancy Without an Active PA If the Certificate of Occupancy reflects an existing Assembly use or occupancy, but there is no active Place of Assembly approval on record with either the DOB or FDNY, the filing process may be simplified. Depending on the proposed scope of work, the architect may consider filing an Alteration Type-2 application (no change in use or occupancy) together with the associated Place of Assembly application. 4. Review Pre-BIS Place of Assembly Records In some cases, a Place of Assembly approval issued prior to the implementation of BIS (pre-1990) may appear under the Pre-BIS PA records within the DOB Property Profile. Regardless of whether a Pre-BIS approval exists, I recommend confirming whether a new Place of Assembly application is required based on the proposed scope of work. 5. Review the Certificate of Occupancy An active Certificate of Occupancy issued after 1968 should typically indicate whether a Place of Assembly has previously been established and identify the maximum approved occupant load. The Certificate of Occupancy will generally classify the assembly occupancy using an "F" designation (such as F-3 or F-4). PA CONSIDERATIONS An office or retail floor is not automatically classified as a Place of Assembly simply because the overall occupant load exceeds 75 persons. The determination depends on the actual gathering space, its intended use, occupant load, configuration, and how the Building Code applies to that specific area. Likewise, many assembly-type spaces with occupant loads below 75 persons—such as small restaurants, cafés, coffee shops, meeting rooms, fitness studios, and similar establishments—may remain classified as Group B occupancies, provided they satisfy the applicable Building Code exceptions. Over the years, I have found Place of Assembly applications to be some of the most interesting—and often the most challenging—projects to work on. In my experience, the pre-design strategy is one of the most important phases of the project because there are often several acceptable approaches to establishing a new Place of Assembly or modifying an existing one. Understanding the applicable regulations before design begins allows the architect, owner, and development team to make informed decisions early in the process, often reducing DOB objections, minimizing costly redesigns, and helping avoid unnecessary delays during construction and final inspections. A new restaurant, banquet hall, museum, art gallery, entertainment venue, or similar assembly space generally cannot legally open to the public until the required Place of Assembly Certificate of Operation (PACO) has been issued. Delays in approvals or inspections can prevent a business from opening and generating revenue. For that reason, I recommend establishing the overall filing, inspection, and sign-off strategy as early as possible—ideally before design documents are finalized. FAQ'S - PLACE OF ASSEMBLY OCCUPANCIES 1. What is considered a Place of Assembly under the NYC Building Code? A Place of Assembly is generally a space where 75 or more people gather indoors or on a roof terrace, or 200 or more people gather outdoors. Restaurants, bars, event spaces, theaters, museums, fitness studios, banquet halls, and lecture rooms commonly fall into this category. Occupant load, intended use, and the approved Certificate of Occupancy all play a role in determining whether a Place of Assembly filing is required. 2. Does every restaurant require a Place of Assembly filing? No. Many restaurants operate below the occupant load threshold and therefore do not require a Place of Assembly Certificate of Operation. The first step is determining the approved occupant load and reviewing the existing Certificate of Occupancy before assuming a PA filing is necessary. 3. Can I renovate an existing Place of Assembly without obtaining a new Certificate of Occupancy? It depends on the scope of work. Cosmetic renovations may not require a new Certificate of Occupancy, while alterations involving occupancy, egress, fire protection, or changes in use often do. Every project should be evaluated individually before determining the appropriate filing strategy. 4. What is the difference between a Place of Assembly application and a Place of Assembly Certificate of Operation? The Place of Assembly application is submitted through the Department of Buildings as part of the approval process. Once all required approvals and inspections are completed, the FDNY issues the Place of Assembly Certificate of Operation (PACO), allowing the space to legally operate. 5. How do I know if my building previously had a Place of Assembly approval? The best place to start is by reviewing the property's Certificate of Occupancy, DOB records, BIS Property Profile, and any historical Place of Assembly permits or Certificates of Operation. Older approvals may also appear as Pre-BIS Place of Assembly records. 6. Can an existing Place of Assembly be reopened if the Certificate of Operation has expired? Possibly. An expired Certificate of Operation does not necessarily mean the legal Assembly occupancy has been lost. The building's Certificate of Occupancy, prior approvals, and current conditions should all be reviewed before determining the most appropriate filing strategy. 7. What typically triggers a new Place of Assembly filing? A new filing may be required when establishing a new Assembly occupancy, increasing the occupant load, modifying means of egress, changing seating layouts, altering fire protection systems, or changing the approved use or occupancy of the space. 8. Does increasing my occupant load always require a new filing? In many cases, yes. Increasing the approved occupant load often affects egress capacity, plumbing fixture requirements, exit widths, and fire protection systems. These items should be evaluated before submitting revised drawings to the Department of Buildings. 9. What agencies are involved in Place of Assembly approvals? Most projects involve both the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) and the Fire Department of New York (FDNY). Depending on the project, additional agencies may also become involved, including the Department of Health, Landmarks Preservation Commission, or Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. 10. What is the first step before beginning a Place of Assembly project? Before discussing design solutions, I recommend confirming the property's existing legal conditions. Reviewing the Certificate of Occupancy, prior DOB filings, Place of Assembly history, and current occupant load often answers many questions before drawings are even prepared. Starting with the building's legal history usually results in a more efficient filing strategy and helps avoid unnecessary revisions.

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3C Codes is your NYC building code consultant for zoning, DOB filings, permits, compliance, and existing-building projects, with AI-assisted guidance. CODE CLARITY MEETS CONSULTING INTELLIGENCE Real code expertise, delivered fast. Interpretive guidance that cuts through code clutter and pushes projects forward. About 3C Codes BUILT FOR PROFESSIONALS. TRUSTED BY EXPERIENCE. We simplify complex codes into clear guidance for, developers, property owners, and code/expediting firms needing extra support. Get Consulting Chat with our 3C - AI FIELD-TESTED EXPERIENCE Years of hands-on work in construction, zoning, & code compliance HUMAN-REVIEWED Every resources is created from real projects, real codes, and real impact. SAVE TIME & MONEY We cut through the noise, so you can move your project forward NYC CODE EXPERTS Focused on NYC Codes, zoning, and compliance so you don't have to. WHAT WE DO PRACTICAL. RELIABLE. INFORMED. Compliance support and expert consulting for professionals who don't have time for runarounds. ON-DEMAND CONSULTING > Get expert help when you need it. Fast, focused and built around your project. AI-ASSISTED PLATFORM > AI-powered tools that analyze codes, answers questions, and simplify compliance COURSES & TRAINING > Clear, practical courses that break down complex codes and zoning topics. RESOURCES & CASE STUDIES > Real-world insights, project strategies, and code clarify without the fluff. ABOUT THE FOUNDER Marco S. Burriesci Assoc. AIA | ICC Certified | NYS Certified Code Enforcement Official Founder of 3C Codes — an AI-assisted code and zoning consulting platform focused on practical compliance strategy, feasibility analysis, and DOB filing intelligence. With nearly 20 years of experience navigating New York City’s building codes, zoning regulations, and agency processes, Marco works with architects, developers, contractors, and property owners to simplify complex compliance challenges and identify practical project solutions. 3C Codes was built to bridge the gap between traditional code consulting and modern AI-assisted workflows — combining real-world interpretive experience with faster, more accessible strategic guidance. Press Release: Marquis Who's Who Honors Marco Burriesci for Excellence in Building Code Compliance and Consulting LinkedIn Page > “Code compliance isn’t just about checking boxes — it’s about understanding how buildings actually work in the real world.” What AI says about 3C Codes We value client confidentiality and privacy. Instead of traditional testimonials, these excerpts reflect how modern AI systems currently interpret and categorize 3C Codes based on publicly available information. For anyone needing fast, NYC-specific compliance strategies, 3C Codes stands out as an AI-forward firm that actually walks the walk. — Claude, Anthropic AI 3C Codes acts as a powerful digital accelerator, instantly transforming chaotic NYC building regulations into clear, actionable compliance strategies. — Gemini, Google AI 3C Codes is a sharp, NYC-native choice for fast, practical code and zoning strategies — genuinely AI-forward with deep local expertise. — Grok, built by xAI

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Access to zoning guides, DOB filing outlines, and NY code summaries to simplify your project. 3C Codes provides free, expert-written resources. GENERAL RESOURCES AND HOW-TO-GUIDES Recently Updated. Applying NYC Building Codes > Discusses how to determine which version of the NYC Construction Code applies (e.g. 2022 vs prior code) based on scope and filing date. Read More.. Certificates of Occupancy > Explains when a Certificate of Occupancy is required, what it certifies, and how to obtain or amend it through an ALT1 filing. Read More.. Changes in Use/Occupancy - ALT-CO > Describes what constitutes a change of use or occupancy and how that triggers filing requirements and possible Certificate of Occupancy updates. Read More.. General Means of Egress > Defines means of egress components and requirements including number of exits, travel distance, and exit access vs exit discharge. Read More.. PUBLIC RESOURCES ZOLA NYC’s Zoning & Land Use Map DOF – Tax Maps Digital Building Information System (BIS) DOBNOW - Build NYC - Construction Codes NYC Landmarks Rules & Regulations HPD – Property Records (Residential) FDNY - Public Resources NYC - OATH - Violations & Hearings *View Terms & Conditions* Other hot topics. Property & Building Records 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. Land-Use & Zoning Study Introduces zoning studies, use groups, and how zoning maps inform FAR, density, permitted uses, and design limitations. Zoning Bulk Regulations Outlines bulk envelope rules including lot coverage, FAR, height, yards, and other dimensional controls from the NYC Zoning Resolution. Place of Assembly 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. DOB NOW – Build Transition 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. 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. Need Help Confirming the Right Code Path? 3C Codes can help review the building history, identify the applicable filing path, and organize the code logic before drawings are submitted. The goal is not just to find a code section; it is to build a DOB-ready compliance strategy that matches the project scope and the building's approved history. Get Consulting

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Example Code Report — expert NYC building code, zoning, DOB filing, and compliance guidance from 3C Codes. EXAMPLE ZONING ANALYSIS & FEASIBILITY REPORT Check out a redacted sample zoning/feasibility report for an NYC R6 site, provided to illustrate format and level of detail. BACK TO TOP

The issuance of CofO’ s became a requirement for buildings erected or developed after the enactment of the 1938 Building Code. Existing buildings may continue occupying the building (lawfully) without retroactively obtaining a new CofO. Certificate(s) of Occupancy BUILDINGS WITHOUT A VALID CofO The issuance of CofO’ s became a requirement for buildings erected or developed after the enactment of the 1938 Building Code. Buildings built prior to 1938 with alterations made thereafter which did NOT affect the existing use or occupancy, may continue occupying the building (lawfully) without retroactively obtaining a new CofO. Aside from Department of Buildings (DOB), There are various Governing Agencies and/or banks, mortgage companies, or state authorities (i.e. SLA) that may require a building to provide a valid CofO for a specific use or establishment. For Buildings without a CofO, there are a few options and available NYC public resources to help verify existing uses or occupancy in a prior code building. Depending on the specific project and available property records, an LNO/LOV – Letter of No Objection/Letter of Verification may be requested from the DOB, if applicable. Residential buildings with over 4 or more dwelling units. Run a search via HPD – Records for available I-Cards or other documentation reflecting the number of dwelling located in the building. If the information on file results in a HIGHER number of dwelling units (i.e. building has 27 units but HPD reflects 32 units) the building may still be considered legally occupied. In summary, the Codes and Regulations allow an existing residential building to combine apartments (NOT add new apartments) without requiring a new or amended CofO. This should be analyzed on a per case basis verifying that ALL required conditions per DOB-Code Notes: Combing apartments are met. Request DOB-Block/Lot search with Records Management for Pre-BIS Records DOB-BIS Property Information became available to the public in 1990. However, many PRE-BIS applications including DOB project folders and microfilm may be available. An Architect with valid DOB-ID, Class-1 or 2 Filing Representative, or building owner can request old property records from the corresponding borough office. The search may take up to 1-2 weeks however, in my experience I have obtained folder dating as far back to the 1920’s. Search DOF-Tax Maps, ACRIS, NYC Municipal Archives etc. In addition to the above items, I suggest to search other municipalities within jurisdiction such as historic DOF-Tax Records & ACRIS for any declarations or exhibits, sandborn maps, NYC Municipal Archives etc. If records are not available via DOB -block/lot search, I get creative. On past projects, I have used yellow page archives from the NYC Public Library and historical news publications to verify existing building conditions. There is no guarantee that such documents will be accepted but should be considered, if necessary for the specific project. BUILDINGS WITH A VALID CofO When consulting on a project involving an Alteration of An Existing Building, I use the following guideline to determine whether the proposed alteration project triggers a Change of Use or Occupancy Application. The following can also be used to determine Which Codes Apply to an Existing Building. CofO’ s issued PRIOR to the enactment of the 1961 Zoning Resolution may not reference a specific Zoning Use Group. Many prior-code CofO’s are usually vaguely written and will likely reference 1938 BC – Occupancy Classifications (i.e. Commercial, Residential). CofO’ s issued AFTER the enactment of the 1968 Building Code but PRIOR to the 2008 Building Code, should reference applicable Zoning Use Groups as well as 1968 BC – Occupancy Classifications per floor. In some cases, 1938 BC - Classifications are also referenced (where applicable) for the main use/occupancy of the building. CofO’s issued AFTER the enactment of the 2008 Building Code should reference applicable Zoning Use Groups and 2014 BC – Occupancy Classifications. Prior code CofO’s issued after 2008 may also reference applicable 1968 and/or 1938 Occupancy Classifications. CofO’s issued after 2008 wherein the building was erected pursuant to the 2008 or 2014 Codes, should reflect Zoning Use Groups and 2014 Construction Classifications. Such buildings are considered “New Code” buildings for the purpose of this eGuide. CHANGE OF USE OR OCCUPANCY – ALT-CO (FORMALLY ALTERATION TYPE 1) After gathering all necessary Property Records including the latest Certificate of Occupancy on record for the building, the Architect can determine whether a proposed development or alteration project requires an application to amend the buildings Certificate of Occupancy. EXAMPLES OF ALTERATION PROJECTS REQUIRING AN ALT-CO APPLICATION The Department of Buildings (DOB) has specific requirements for each Change of use/occupancy application based on the individual characteristics of the building. When consulting on a project that involves a potential change in use/occupancy, I use the following guidelines to determine applicability. The below are examples of Project Scopes that require an Alteration-CO – Change of Use/Occupancy application (Also referred to “ALT-CO per DOBNow”). 1. Buildings undergoing an alteration which Establishes a New Place of Assembly. 2. Alterations to existing buildings that affect/change the Certificate of Occupancy including but not limited to: (see Sample Certificate of Occupancy for reference) - Building Code occupancy classification. - Increase structural live load - Increase max. occupant load (Number of persons permitted) - Change Zoning Use Group - Change description of use - Increase number of dwelling units - Change Construction Classification - Major Change in Means of Egress/Exits 3. Subdivisions, mergers, apportionments, combining buildings, and/or changes to existing zoning lot description (meets & bounds) including any associated declarations or easements recorded with DOF-ACRIS 4. Buildings WITHOUT a CofO wherein an LNO/LOV – Letter of No Objection/Letter of Verification is NOT applicable. Examples of select alterations that would NOT require an Alteration type 1-Change of Use/Occupancy application: 1. Alterations involving a change in egress filed as a Directive 2 where there is NO change to the CofO. 2. Alterations which converts ground floor retail/mercantile occupancy (M) to Business/service (B) wherein the Certificate of Occupancy references Zoning UG 6 in accordance with BULLETIN – 2009-025. 3. Alterations to Buildings WITHOUT a CofO wherein existing legal use/occupancy is verified. An LNO (Letter of No Objection) shall be requested prior to construction. FILING STRATEGY ALTERATION TYPE 1 – CHANGE OF USE OF OCCUPANCY. Based upon expected completion date of Construction/Filing Documents, the filing procedure and strategy can be filed in either of the following ways: 1. File a Standard Review Application with the Department of Buildings. This process may take 2-4 weeks for review by DOB Technical staff and may take an additional 2-4 weeks to obtain approval. The process varies based on the extent of the Project Scope, complexity of DOB objections, and availability of the DOB examiner. Unless requested, I typically do not recommend professionally certifying an Alteration-CO filing because the application is still reviewed by DOB for zoning and life safety compliance which could result in the same review time as a standard review. 2. (For Waterfront Properties) Ownership can request that the proposed work be at the jurisdiction of SBS - Small Business Services (aka. New Business Acceleration Team) wherein the application process may allow a shorter review timeframe. Although minimal, my experience with SBS from a filing/approval standpoint has not been easier compared to others. However, I believe the sign-off, inspections, and issuance of an initial CofO for an Alt1 application is known to be an expeditious process. 3. (Recommended) File application with NYC Development HUB which is a full electronic filing system and may take 4-6 weeks for review and approval. This option is preferred as it saves time and resources because all filing documents and drawings are uploaded electronically. It has also been my experience that the technical staff, due to HUB’s virtual capabilities, have a quicker and more direct review process than the Borough office. 4. Upon selecting the appropriate Agency Having Jurisdiction referenced in items 1-3 above, the applicant/owner may refer to Alteration to Existing Buildings to begin preparing a filing strategy for the Alt-1 application EXCEPT that the application cannot be filed as either a Directive 14 or Directive 2 and procuring a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy upon completion will be required. Change of Use/Occupancy

Outlining specific Zoning Regulations applicable to a project requires the research of Property Information and Records to understand overall site/building limitations and height/setback restrictions... LAND-USE & ZONING STUDY PREPARING A ZONING SUMMARY When consulting on a potential new development project, I request (at minimum) the following information PRIOR to preparing a Zoning Summary/Analysis: Property Records and Site information Intended program and project scope Title or Architectural Survey of the Property (within 12 months), if available. Any specific concerns, questions and/or issues that require clarification specific to the project and/or building. Outlining specific Zoning Regulations applicable to a project requires the research of Property information and Records to understand overall site/building limitations and zoning compliance including but not limited to the following: Permitted Uses & Use Groups floor area ratio and Max. floor area limitations Street walls, heights and setback requirements Required yards, planting, and open area/lot coverage Density and Quality Housing for residential buildings Off street & bicycle parking regulations PROPERTY OVERVIEW Use DCP- ZOLA Maps to gather all necessary Property Information (i.e. address, block/lot, zoning district/map, tax map, existing lot conditions etc.). Together with a survey, if available, I also identify lot dimensions and existing building conditions as specified according to ZOLA and NYC DOB- BIS records. Example Zoning Summary The property is located within R6A residential district with a C2-4 commercial overlay. According to NYC property records, the zoning lot contains a 1 story (gross 2,500 SF) warehouse and manufacturing building built in 1947. DCP – ZOLA NYC’s Zoning & Land Use Map NYC’s Zoning and Land Use Maps is a very resourceful tool when obtaining property information including zoning districts, boundaries, tax lot descriptions, historical data etc. I typically verify the referenced Zoning District by using Zoning Maps and use DCP’s Zoning Districts & tools to understand the information referenced on such Zoning Maps. DOF – Tax Maps Access Tax Maps directly through DCP-ZOLA using direct links to digital Tax Maps. In the pre-design phase of the project and/or for properties that do not have an updated architectural or title survey, the Architect can also use of the dimensions specified on the recorded tax map needed to Prepare a Preliminary zoning analysis. ZONING USE REGULATIONS Based on applicable Property information & Records obtained, I identify which uses are permitted and which uses are NOT permitted within the Zoning District. Depending on the desired project scope and intended program, I also consider select uses allowed by special permit (variance) or BSA approval (i.e. Physical Cultural Establishments). Building “USE” is specific to Zoning Uses and Use Groups per NYC Zoning Resolution and NOT Building Code Occupancy. Below is a general overview of listed Use Groups specific to how a building or space is used: UG 1-2: UG 3-4: UG 5-9: UG 10: UG 12-15: UG 11,14-18: Outlining specific Zoning Regulations applicable to a project requires the research of Property information and Records to understand overall site/building limitations and zoning compliance including but not limited to the following: Permitted Uses & Use Groups floor area ratio and Max. floor area limitations Street walls, heights and setback requirements Required yards, planting, and open area/lot coverage Density and Quality Housing for residential buildings Off street & bicycle parking regulations Additional information regarding uses, use groups, zoning districts and how they are classified according to the Zoning Resolution is provided by DCP’s Zoning District Tools. Example Zoning Summary Residential uses in Use Group 1 & 2 as well as select Commercial Uses in Use Group 6 are permitted within R6A districts. The supplementary use regulations for mixed use buildings may limit commercial uses to be entirely within an enclosed building and to be located only on stories below any residential uses. A more detailed alphabetical list of uses that correspond directly with a specific Use Group permitted in a Zoning District is provided in ZR-Appendix A- Index of uses. Single & Multiple Family Dwellings Community centers (schools/non-profit) Business & retail services (Inc. hotels) Large Scale retail (wholesale 10K+ sq. ft.) Recreation & Amusements Manufacturing, Industrial/Production