How do I Report a Complaint?
Complaints concerning streetlights should be reported to the New York City complaint number, 311, or by filling out the Street Light Repair Request Form. After completing the online form, you will receive a work order number that can be used to check the status of repairs.
Complaints can be reported 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This form is used by the Department and its contractors to expedite repairs of street lights and traffic signals. You can use this form to report a problem with a street light.
If you see a small flashing red light next to the streetlight bulb, please call 311 immediately. The flashing red light indicates an issue with the electrical current. These reports are investigated within 4 hours. 79,000 low voltage indicators have been installed as of November 2008. An additional 184,000 will be installed in the coming months.
If you wish to report a problem with a traffic signal, please call 311 for prompt action.
How Long Should This Take?
DOT's Streetlight Maintenance contractors are required to give the Department a disposition on each reported problem within 10 days of notification. A disposition can refer to a repair, but it can also be a notice that a major repair is required (such as, reconstruction of the concrete foundation) or that the problem has been referred to Con Edison for repair of a power outage. The contractor has 4 hours to respond to emergency conditions (such as a fallen pole or a low voltage condition).
How Do I Request Installation or Relocation of a Street Light?
DOT conducts an engineering study to determine whether to install a new street light. To request a study, send a letter to Commissioner, Department of Transportation, 55 Water Street, New York, NY 10041.
