Permits For Building A Roof Deck In Nyc

While a porch provides access to the building s primary entrance a deck does not have to be attached to the building for it to be considered a deck by building department definition.

Permits for building a roof deck in nyc.

Back in april of 2017 the new york city department of buildings dob decided to crack down on roof decks roof terraces and recreational spaces on the roofs of buildings. Nyc building code 3300 governs construction safety and applies to decks and porches. An outdoor structure with a roof is subject to stricter guidelines regulating lot coverage and storm water retention. Developers and building owners were up in arms.

Decks and porches are raised floors that are level with or below the first story of a house supported by a structural frame and without a roof. Some people find out the hard way by having to pay a hefty fine tearing down their brand new deck or having someone get hurt because of faulty construction. A building permit is required if the deck is attached to the house or is 30 inches above grade. Rooftop outdoor spaces had become hugely popular for new and existing buildings.

The difference between them is that a porch provides access to a building s primary entrance. Building deck without a permit may result in removing it possible penalties and back property taxes. Decks are used for recreation and may also be located on the roof of the building. They are typically more than 50 open at the perimeter and may be constructed with various materials and assemblies including wood concrete and metal.

If the deck is freestanding is 30 or less in height and less than 200 square feet a permit is not required. New york city zoning.