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DOB Requires Initial Observation of Parking Structures

DOB Requires Initial Observation of Parking Structures

By Katherine Baerga

Earlier this year, the Department of Buildings announced a new rule (1 RCNY §103-16) to ensure the safety of parking structures located in specific Community Districts. The rule requires a one-time initial observation of parking structures performed by August 1, 2024, and applies to such facilities in Manhattan Community Districts 8 through 12 and throughout Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and the Bronx that must have periodic inspections performed by the end of 2025 or 2027, per 1 RCNY §103-13.

Owners of parking structures located in Manhattan Community Districts 8 through 12 and all Brooklyn Community Districts are exempt from this requirement, provided they file a full inspection report by August 1.

Inspection Requirements

Inspections, including initial observations, must be performed by a professional engineer, licensed and registered with New York State, who is also a Qualified Parking Structure Inspector (QPSI).

Owners of parking structures must repair any unsafe conditions within 90 days of filing a condition assessment report in DOB NOW: Safety. An amended report must be filed online within two weeks of completing repairs.

Submission of Initial Observations

Initial observation reports must be submitted in DOB NOW: Safety by August 1. Submission of the report requires a Parking Structure ID.

Parking Structures and Exclusions

The DOB defines a parking structure as a building or portion of a building used for parking or storing motor vehicles and either an open or enclosed parking garage, as defined in the New York City Building Code. These structures must be inspected once every six years. Building owners who are not sure whether their property meets the definition of a parking structure can submit a verification request, at which time the DOB will assign a Parking Structure ID.

The following property types are excluded from this definition of parking structures:

  • Auto body and auto repair shops, automotive showrooms, and automotive service stations
  • Garages that accommodate fewer than three cars
  • Unenclosed and unattached lots
  • Garages of one- and two-family homes

If you have any questions about these requirements or need assistance, please contact Metropolis Group at 212.233.6344.