New York City Building Permits — Fees, Requirements & Applications

About Building Permits in New York City

Building permits in New York City are issued by the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB). Most residential permit applications are submitted online through the DOB NOW: Build portal at dobonline.nyc.gov. Processing times for standard residential projects typically run 20–40 business days for standard plan review.

2022 NYC Building Code (aligned with IBC). NYC requires licensed DOB-registered contractors for most work and uses a unique Alt-1/Alt-2/Alt-3 permit classification system.

Inspections must be scheduled through DOB NOW; some trades require a licensed special inspector.

Project Types in NYC

Select a project to see permit requirements, fees, and how to apply with the NYC DOB.

Fence Permit $100–$500 · Usually required over 6 ft Deck Permit $200–$1,200 · Required for attached decks Roof Replacement Permit $500–$2,000 · Required for structural work Kitchen Remodel Permit $400–$3,000 · Required for layout changes Bathroom Remodel Permit $300–$2,500 · Required for plumbing moves HVAC Permit $200–$1,500 · Always required Shed Permit $100–$400 · Required over 100 sq ft Electrical Panel Permit $200–$800 · Always required Pool Permit $1,000–$5,000+ · Always required ADU PermitNOW PERMITTED VIA CITY OF YES

NYC Note: All permit applications in New York City go through the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) NOW portal. Most residential projects require an Alt-2 application filed by a licensed architect or engineer.