NYC DOB Introduces New Civil Penalty for Vacate Order Violations

The New York City Department of Buildings (NYC DOB) has announced a significant update for property owners: starting December 15, 2023, the department will impose additional civil penalties for failing to obey Vacate Orders. This new regulation is part of NYC’s ongoing efforts to ensure building safety and compliance with city codes.

Under the updated rule, property owners who receive a violation for failing to comply with a Vacate Order will face a civil penalty of $6,000 for the initial violation. For any subsequent violation, the penalty will increase to $12,000. These penalties are intended to reinforce the importance of addressing safety issues promptly and preventing hazardous conditions in occupied buildings. This new requirement applies to both Full and Partial Vacate Orders, meaning that even if only part of a building is affected, the penalty will still apply if the order is not obeyed.

The Vacate Order serves as a critical tool for the DOB to protect occupants and the public from potentially unsafe buildings. When issued, it mandates that all individuals vacate the specified premises until the necessary corrections are made to resolve safety concerns. With the new penalties in place, the DOB aims to strengthen compliance and reduce the risks posed by unaddressed violations.

Property owners should note that the civil penalty must be paid in addition to resolving the underlying issue that led to the Vacate Order. To lift the order, owners are required to both correct the condition and settle the penalty. This two-step approach ensures that both immediate hazards are addressed and compliance with safety regulations is maintained.

For those affected by a Vacate Order, the process for payment is straightforward. The penalty must be paid at the borough office where the property is located. In addition, when a violation is issued for failure to comply with a Vacate Order, the penalty amount will be displayed on the property’s profile within the DOB NOW system. This online profile provides transparency and a quick reference for property owners to review any penalties or orders associated with their property.

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

For complete details and requirements, please refer to the official notice from the NYC DOB’s website. Keep yourself informed about the most recent changes and regulations.