New York City's Department of Buildings (DOB) permit system is one of the most complex in the country. Many homeowners don't know what requires a permit — and find out at sale when an inspector flags unpermitted work. Here's what you need to know.
Projects That Always Require NYC DOB Permits
- Any new plumbing lines or drain relocation
- New electrical circuits, panel upgrades, or service changes
- Gas line work
- HVAC installation or significant modification
- Removing or altering load-bearing walls
- New window or door openings (cutting through exterior walls)
- Adding or converting habitable space (finishing a basement, adding a room)
- Any work in a landmarked building or landmark district
Projects That Do NOT Require Permits
- Painting (interior and exterior)
- Replacing existing fixtures in the same location (swap faucet for faucet)
- Replacing flooring
- Cabinet installation (not involving plumbing changes)
- Countertop replacement
- Replacing doors and windows in existing openings (same size)
- Cosmetic repairs and patching
Types of NYC Building Permits
NB (New Building): For new construction.
Alt 1: Major alterations affecting use, egress, or occupancy.
Alt 2: Multiple types of work in a single application — most apartment renovations.
Alt 3 / Minor: Single type of work, like a plumbing alteration only.
Equipment: HVAC, boiler, elevator equipment.
How Long Does NYC Permitting Take?
Simple Alt 3 permits can be filed and approved same-day through the DOB NOW portal. More complex Alt 1 and Alt 2 applications typically take 2–8 weeks. Expedited review (for a fee) can sometimes accelerate the timeline.
What Happens If You Skip Permits?
NYC has bite on unpermitted work. Consequences include:
- ECB (Environmental Control Board) violations — fines starting at $1,000+
- Stop-work orders on active projects
- Required removal and correction of unpermitted work
- Problems at sale — buyers' attorneys pull DOB records
- Insurance claim denials if unpermitted work contributed to a loss
House Help Services handles all permit applications as part of our renovation projects. We never suggest skipping permits. Contact us for any NYC renovation project.
House Help Services provides emergency and home improvement services across NYC and NJ. Get a free estimate or call (206) 401-7828.