The Padlock Enforcement Unit (PEU) enforces Local Law 6 of 1993, which added section 26-127.2 to the New York City Administrative Code. PEU works to remove illegal commercial and manufacturing uses in residence districts that are contrary to the Zoning Resolution and any applicable Certificate of Occupancy. The City considers such uses as public nuisances. Ultimately, PEU's mission is to maintain and, where possible, improve the quality of life in New York City residence districts.

When PEU receives a complaint, our staff will conduct inspections and legal use research. If an investigation finds an illegal commercial or manufacturing use, PEU will notify the owner and the occupant of the subject premises. In all cases, PEU works with willing owners and occupants to discontinue illegal uses. However, if the owner and the occupant do not voluntarily discontinue the illegal uses, PEU will seek a closure recommendation at an administrative hearing before the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings. Subsequently, a closure order may be issued, which may result in padlocking and closure of the violating premises and termination of the illegal use. The Padlock Enforcement Unit is located at 280 Broadway 5th Floor, New York, NY 10007.

• Contact the Padlock Enforcement Unit

Padlock Information and Updates .......

Inspection Appointments and requests for general information can be made to the Padlock Enforcement Unit using an electronic submission form. To register a complaint call 311.

Padlock Forms - for copies of all forms used by the public regarding Padlock statutes.

Frequently Asked Questions regarding the enforcement of the Padlock statutes.