One path through New York City's permitting system

At least 11 agencies review new construction under different legal authorities. Below is one example of how a project might move through the system — not every building follows this exact path. Some skip environmental review, landmark review, or affordability compliance; others trigger additional approvals not shown here.
This is illustrative. Sequence and required agencies vary by project type, location, and discretionary triggers. Each stage requires sign-off from one or more agencies before the next can begin. Hover any agency block for details.
1. Pre-filing
DCP
Zoning analysis
LPC
Landmark review
OEC
CEQR screening
Weeks-months
2. Env review
OEC
CEQR/EIS
DOT
Traffic study
If discretionary: 6-18 mo
3. Plan filing
DOB
Plan submission
1 day
4. Plan exam
DOB
Code + zoning
FDNY
Fire safety
DEP
Sewer/storm
Varies
5. Permit
DOB
Work permit
DOT
Street/sidewalk
After objections resolved
6. Construction
DOB
Inspections
FDNY
Fire systems
DOL
Asbestos
12-36 months
7. TCO/CO
DOB
CO review
FDNY
Letter of approval
DEP
Sewer sign-off
FDNY backlog: ~7 weeks
8. Occupancy
HPD
Affordability
MTA
ZFA compliance
Ongoing
DOB
DCP
FDNY
DEP
DOT
LPC
HPD
OEC
MTA
DOL
Data: NYC Department of Buildings, NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, NYC City Record via NYC Open Data. Last updated April 1, 2026.