Clarified Permit Classification — Structural work for a new building (NB) must now be filed under a “New Building” permit — not as an “Alteration.” The structural drawings must be submitted with the NB application, or as a subsequent filing tied to the NB application no.
Alterations with Enlargement or Bulk Changes Also Need Proper Filing — Any alteration that increases the building’s floor area or changes its mass/bulk (either horizontally or vertically) must be filed under the appropriate Alteration permit — and include a full zoning analysis and lot-diagram per code.
No More “Structural Work under an Alteration + NB Application” Loophole — The DOB is closing a prior practice where structural-work permits were sometimes issued under an Alteration permit while tied to a pending NB application. That practice is now forbidden absent explicit approval by a Borough Commissioner.
5th Consecutive Year: Crain’s 2025 Best Places to Work in NYC
We’re honored to share that Alan Margolin & Associates has been named one of Crain’s New York Business Best Places to Work for the fifth year in a row.
This recognition reflects our commitment to fostering a supportive, collaborative environment where our team can grow, innovate, and deliver exceptional service to our clients. We’re proud of this milestone and grateful to our partners who make our work so rewarding.
New Procedures for Battery-Containment Enclosures (BCEs)
Key Takeaways:
Purpose & Scope: The bulletin establishes new filing procedures and clarifies design requirements for battery containment enclosures (BCEs) — such as charging cabinets for lithium-ion batteries used in micromobility devices — when installed either on a public right-of-way or within a tax lot (e.g., inside a building or on private property).
Definition of BCE: A BCE is defined as an enclosure that stores and/or charges lithium-ion cells, battery packs, or battery-powered micromobility devices. It’s intended to mitigate hazards such as heat, fire, and deflagration.