NYC DOB Updates L2 Forms for Permit Violations with New Penalty Waivers and Exemptions
The New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) recently announced updates to the L2 forms required for handling civil penalties for work completed without permits. Effective October 16, 2023, only the newly revised forms dated September 2023 will be accepted. These changes aim to streamline the process for applicants seeking penalty adjustments, offering new options for small businesses and other properties.
One of the most notable updates is related to legalization (LEG). Now, if work was completed without a permit but no violation was issued, property owners can apply for legalization without incurring severe penalties. For one- or two-family dwellings, the penalty stands at $600, while other types of buildings will face a $6,000 penalty. This adjustment provides a clear, straightforward path for applicants to address past unpermitted work without extensive fines.
Another significant revision targets fee-exempt properties (FEP). If unpermitted work occurred on a property not subject to regular permit fees, penalties mirror those for legalization: $600 for one- or two-family homes and $6,000 for other buildings. This adjustment recognizes that some properties, by their nature, do not incur typical permit fees, offering property owners a fair way to rectify unpermitted work.
The DOB has also clarified its stance on expired permits (EXP1), specifically for sidewalk sheds installed with an initial permit. Under §102-04 of Title 1 of the Rules of the City of New York, penalties for expired permits for sidewalk sheds are no longer eligible for waivers. This change underscores the importance of timely permit renewals, encouraging property owners to stay current on permit requirements.
Perhaps the most impactful change is the introduction of the Small Business Waiver (SBW) option on the L2 form. Under Executive Order #2, issued in 2022, small businesses now have an additional path to request civil penalty waivers, reducing the financial burden on smaller operations working to comply with NYC building regulations.
For those seeking to address past permit issues, this updated L2 form and its instructions, available on the NYC DOB website, offer essential guidance. These changes not only support property owners but also reinforce the DOB’s mission of safe and compliant building practices in New York City.
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. Stay informed and up-to-date with the latest regulations and adjustments.
