A new DOB report seeks to take building safety to new heights, by exploring the potential use of drones for building façade inspections.

This comprehensive agency report provides a deep dive into the regulatory landscape affecting unmanned aircraft systems use in New York City, the use of drones in other jurisdictions, and how drones can potentially be used to aid in safety inspections throughout the five boroughs

"It is imperative that we continue to embrace the latest technologies and innovations in support of our mission to protect our fellow New Yorkers," said Commissioner Melanie E. La Rocca. "Our report is the product of intensive research by DOB experts, and finds that when combined with traditional hands-on examinations, the effective use of drones could potentially result in more comprehensive building inspections, resulting in reduced inefficiencies and a safer New York City."

Read the Drone Report

Read our Press Release

At the beginning of next year, owners of parking structures in New York City will be required to hire a state licensed and registered professional engineer to inspect their structures at least once every six years, and file a report with the Department of Buildings documenting the results of the inspection.

The first inspection cycle is anticipated to start January 1st, 2022, and end December 31, 2023. Owners of parking structures located within Community Districts 1 through 7 in Manhattan will be required to have parking structures inspected and file the required report with DOB.

Read the Service Update

New Yorkers who are seeking to take care of unpaid OATH and Environmental Control Board (ECB) judgments are in luck, because the City is offering the opportunity to have those judgments reduced by up to 75%.

Offered through the through NYC Department of Finance's FAIRER (Fine and Interest Reduction Enabling Recovery) Program, this program allows you to pay a reduced amount for eligible OATH judgments, if the violations are certified as corrected with DOB.

The FAIRER Program runs through December 20, 2021 and is open to any individual or business named on a city-issued OATH/ECB violation. For questions about a DOB-issued violation, contact the Department's Administrative Enforcement Unit at (212) 393-2405 or online.

With the holiday season in full swing, DOB would like to remind everyone that the COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective, free, and is now your "Key to NYC."

As of August 17, New Yorkers need to show proof of vaccination for indoor dining, fitness, entertainment and performance venues in the city. Find more information about Key to NYC.

All New Yorkers aged 5 and older are eligible for the vaccine and you can get yours without an appointment. Vaccine booster shots are also now available for all fully vaccinated people aged 18 and older. Find a walk-up vaccination site near you.