Permit guides
Search the published guide library. Check the conditions, confirm the jurisdiction, then follow the official application path.
NYC does not use one universal ADU permit category; a secondary unit must be reviewed through the applicable alteration, occupancy, and certificate-of-occupancy path.
New York City requires a construction work permit before constructing or altering a deck or porch.
Electrical panel and service work requires a DOB electrical permit and NYC Licensed Master Electrician, with current 2026 filing, fee-payment, inspection, and permit-duration rules.
A fence 6 feet or less at a one- or two-family home generally falls within NYC's residential fence exception, subject to zoning and location limits.
HVAC replacement follows NYC DOB mechanical requirements, including equipment-specific plans, energy analysis, inspections, and commissioning when capacity thresholds are reached.
Most New York City construction requires DOB approval, while painting, plastering, new cabinets, floor resurfacing and other listed minor work can be exempt.
A roof project needs a scope-specific NYC Buildings review; this guide does not assume a blanket exemption for structural or alteration work.
Building-connected solar generally needs a Solar job filing plus an associated electrical permit, with professional, structural, inspection, and close-out requirements.
Water-heater work must be classified under NYC plumbing, boiler, fuel-gas, and equipment rules before work begins.
New York City permit requirements depend on whether window or door work is ordinary repair or changes the opening, structure, egress or protected landmark features.