New Projects & Notices of No Objection

Properties subject to E-Designations or Restrictive Declarations require a notice from OER before the NYC Department of Buildings approves plans in connection with certain types of work. The DOB Operational Bulletin 2014-026 identifies the significance of the three most common notices. Instructions on how to apply for OER notices are below. All applications must be submitted through OER's online Environmental Project Information Center (EPIC Environment).

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How do I submit an E-Designation/RD new development project?

For new buildings or conversions to residential or office uses (DOB new building and Alt-Type 1 applications), please submit a new development project on EPIC Environment. These projects will require OER to issue a Notice to Proceed and a Notice of Satisfaction to the Department of Buildings.

Download instructions on submitting new projects. Applicants must create an EPIC account prior to submission.

How do I apply for a Notice of No Objection (NNO)?

NNOs are typically issued for projects involving minor alterations that do not trigger a Hazardous Materials, Air Quality, or Noise review by OER (typical for DOB Alt-Type 2 applications). NNO applications must be submitted via EPIC Environment.

Download instructions on submitting NNO applications. Applicants must create an EPIC account prior to submission.

Can E-Designation requirements be waived?

In limited circumstances, E-Designation requirements can be waived where applications are limited to the following jobs:

  • curb cut
  • sidewalk shed/fence
  • scaffolding
  • construction equipment
  • sprinkler/standpipe
  • fire alarm system

In these cases, the OER Notice of No Objection and Notice of Satisfaction will be waived.

How long does it take for OER to issue an NNO?

OER reserves 30 days for review of NNO Requests. However, most applications are typically reviewed within 5 business days. Parties and their consultants can use EPIC Environment to check the status of their application.

Must I pay a fee to obtain an NNO?

OER requires a fee payment for its review and issuance of an NNO. Parties, however, should not submit fee payments to OER with the initial submission of their projects. An applicant should submit a fee payment only after OER determines a project warrants an NNO and receives a fee notice.