New York City Zoning & Permits
Zoning rules, permit requirements, and building codes for New York City, NY. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Quick Facts
Population
8,336,817
Total Zone Types
38
Planning Department
NYC Department of City Planning (DCP)
Zoning Map
Interactive online map
County
Multiple (New York, Kings, Queens, Bronx, Richmond)
Metro Area
New York-Newark-Jersey City
New York City Zoning System
The New York City zoning system includes 38 total zone classifications: 15 residential zones (R1-1, R1-2, R2, R3-1, R3-2, and others) and 8 commercial zones (C1-1, C1-2, C2-1, C2-2, and others), as well as 2 mixed-use zones (MX-1, MX-2) and 6 industrial zones (M1-1, M1-2, M2-1). New York City uses the NYC Zoning Resolution, one of the most complex zoning codes in the United States, administered by the NYC Department of City Planning (DCP). The resolution was first enacted in 1961 and has been extensively amended. NYC's 'City of Yes for Housing Opportunity' text amendment, approved December 2024 by the City Council, represents the largest zoning reform in decades — allowing more housing types citywide including ADUs, transit-oriented development, and universal affordability preference. Residential zones range from R1 (low-density single-family) to R10 (high-density). Floor Area Ratio (FAR) controls building bulk. Each of the five boroughs has distinct neighborhood character reflected in local zoning maps. The city maintains an interactive zoning map for property lookup.
View New York City Zoning Map (interactive online map)
Building & Planning Departments
The New York City Building Department (NYC Department of Buildings (DOB)) handles all building permit applications, inspections, and code enforcement. You can reach them by phone at (212) 566-5000 or apply online through their permit portal. Office hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm (Borough offices vary). For zoning questions and land use determinations, contact the NYC Department of City Planning (DCP) at (212) 720-3300. Zoning information is available online. Always verify current requirements directly with the department before beginning any project, as regulations and fees may have changed since this data was last verified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in New York City?
Yes, as of September 30, 2025. NYC's 'City of Yes for Housing Opportunity' zoning amendment, approved by the City Council in December 2024, allows ADUs in 1- and 2-family homes citywide. You can convert interior space (basement, attic, garage) or add a detached ADU in the rear yard. The owner must reside on the property as a primary resident. ADUs require NYC Department of Buildings permits.
What is the Airbnb law in New York City?
NYC Local Law 18 (2022), effective September 5, 2023, requires hosts to register with the city ($145/year), be present during all guest stays (no whole-home rentals when not home), and allows a maximum of 2 guests. Airbnb removed non-compliant NYC listings in September 2023. Violations carry fines from $1,000 to $7,500. This is one of the strictest short-term rental laws in the United States.
Do the ADU rules differ between NYC boroughs?
Yes. ADU applicability depends heavily on your borough and zone. Staten Island and Queens have the most single-family R1-R3 zones where detached ADUs are most applicable. Brooklyn and the Bronx have mixed zones. Manhattan has very limited single-family residential — most ADU activity there would be basement apartment conversions in brownstones. Additionally, the 152 Historic Districts add LPC review requirements that can significantly extend timelines in neighborhoods like Brooklyn Heights, Park Slope, and Harlem.
What is the City of Yes for Housing Opportunity?
City of Yes for Housing Opportunity is the largest zoning reform in NYC history, approved by the City Council in December 2024. It allows more housing types citywide including ADUs in 1- and 2-family homes, transit-oriented development near subway stations, Universal Affordability Preference (UAP) for affordable housing, and eliminates minimum parking requirements citywide. Most provisions took effect September 30, 2025.
How do I find my NYC zoning?
Use ZoLa (Zoning and Land Use Application) at zola.planning.nyc.gov — NYC DCP's official interactive zoning map. Enter your address to find zone designation, FAR limits, height limits, required yards, and special purpose districts. You can also check the NYC Zoning Resolution directly at zr.planning.nyc.gov.
Source: NYC Zoning Resolution Article II; City of Yes for Housing Opportunity Text Amendment (approved December 2024). Last verified April 3, 2026. View source