Is a Permit Required for Sidewalk Repairs in NYC?
Repairing your sidewalk is necessary to improve accessibility and safety. However, have you ever wondered if, like any other part of your property, you need a permit for certain types of sidewalk repairs in New York City?
The answer is yes. Acquiring permits is essential for pathways that require structural changes through repairs or complete replacement. Obtaining a permit is necessary, but navigating the permit acquisition process can be challenging. In this article, we will be discussing how to apply for a permit, its cost, and its duration.
Types of Permits
NYC provides a variety of choices to meet various needs when it comes to sidewalk repairs. There is a different type of permit for every type of repair. Some of them are discussed below:
Emergency Repair Permit
An emergency repair permit is required when the sidewalk damage needs swift repairs. Safety issues can be addressed with this type of permit. You can also proceed with the repairs by submitting a regular permit application.
Ordinary Repair Permit
The basic repair permit is the most common type of permit required for routine sidewalk repairs. It covers minor fixes, including replacing slabs, sealing gaps, and repairing minor surface damage.
How Long Does The Permit Remain Valid?
A permit has a thirty-day expiration date. This applies to any of the previously listed types of permits:
- Repairing a sidewalk
- Replacing a sidewalk
- Constructing a New Sidewalk
- Building a new sidewalk that has a heating pipe.
Can I Apply for the Permit?
Yes, you can apply for a permit by mail. To do so, you need to submit an application to the New York City Department of Transportation. The form is available online or can be obtained by calling 311. For more information, please refer to the details provided here.
Moreover, If you get services from the local contractor for sidewalk repairs, you don't have to worry about these complexities. They will be responsible for submitting necessary documents and applying for the DOT permit on your behalf.
What is the Cost of a Sidewalk Repair Permit?
Any property with up to 300 linear feet of sidewalk may require a sidewalk repair permit, which costs $70, and the price of a corner property is $140. The cost of the permit includes both the administrative and dispatch expenses for the inspector's dismissal inspection.
Keep in mind that to perform work on both sides of a corner property, two permits are needed.
How Long Does It Take To Obtain A Permit?
Normally, it takes 2–3 days to get a DOT standard sidewalk opening permit. With a landmark building alteration permit, things are different. Living in a landmark or historic district necessitates a completely different procedure.
It may take several weeks or months for the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) to approve the contractor's application for a Landmark Building Alteration Permit in this situation. Additionally, these permits come with extra costs.
Is It My Responsibility To Apply For The Permit?
If you are repairing the sidewalk on your own, you are solely responsible for the permits. On the other hand, If you avail yourself of services from local experts, they will be applying for the necessary permits on your behalf. Moreover, the government of NYC places a strong emphasis on getting repairs done by professionals.