NYC DOB Updates Definition of ‘Major Building’ for Site Safety Compliance

In a recent announcement, the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) has redefined what qualifies as a ‘major building’ in New York City. This change impacts the site safety rules for certain buildings and introduces new criteria for buildings based on height and stories. Effective December 11, 2024, this new definition will be in place, so it’s essential for building owners, developers, and contractors to understand how it may impact their projects.

According to the update, a ‘major building’ now includes any existing or proposed structure that stands 7 or more stories or reaches 75 feet or higher. Previously, this applied to buildings with 10 or more stories or those 125 feet or taller. This adjustment is part of NYC DOB’s focus on enhancing safety standards, aiming to address building safety proactively, especially for mid-rise buildings that may have previously been excluded.

The DOB will keep additional criteria in place, so buildings with a footprint of 100,000 square feet or more, or those deemed high-risk by the DOB Commissioner due to unique construction or demolition challenges, will also continue to be categorized as ‘major buildings’ under this change. Notably, these changes apply only to permits issued or requested starting on or after December 11, 2024. If a permit request has already been submitted or issued before this date, the older definition applies.

This new definition, however, does not impact façade work, meaning the site safety requirements for façade projects will still only apply to buildings taller than 14 stories or those over 200 feet in height.

Starting December 11, 2024, any job on a ‘major building’ that falls under this updated definition will need to follow the site safety rules. These requirements cover a variety of project types, including general construction, structural work, foundation work, excavation support, and earthwork. Any permits filed before this date that have not received initial approvals in these areas will also need to comply with these updated safety rules.

DOB’s Building Code Chapter 33 and Article 110 of Title 28 of the NYC Administrative Code give comprehensive information for people wishing to familiarise themselves with these site safety requirements. The DOB also advises anyone with more queries or seeking explanation to make a visit at nyc.gov/dobhelp.

This shift emphasises NYC DOB’s dedication to security and its attempt to make sure constructions satisfy contemporary criteria. Anyone engaged in building or renovation fitting this new description should be well-prepared and modify their project schedule.

Stay tuned for more updates and information on this and other NYC DOB initiatives.

For more details on this service notice and how it may affect your building, we encourage you to visit the official NYC DOB’s official website. This page includes a comprehensive outline of the update, ensuring you have all the information you need to remain compliant with NYC building regulations.

Stay informed on NYC building regulations and keep up-to-date with future updates by visiting NYC DOB’s website.