On March 19, 2024, the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) launched Portico, a web-based permit application portal for owners of landmark buildings applying for permits to work on their designated properties. The new process will make it easier for applicants to file an application, allow multiple users to access the same application, and offer updates from start to finish.
Portico has been designed for landmark property owners to use the system for all parts of the permit process including filing new applications, uploading supporting documents, and receiving final permits. The system will be able to direct users to the application that best suits their project through a series of questions and will automatically determine whether their application qualifies for one of LPC’s expedited review services.
Portico is intended as a resource for owners of designated landmark properties, who can access more information on getting started on Portico on LPC’s website. Portico is the latest in a series of recent agency technology upgrades designed to provide enhanced access and increased transparency for both applicants and members of the public. The public can access information about LPC permits and violation data on the LPC’s Permit Application Finder map. LPC recently added enhanced violation data on that site in fulfillment of the goals of the Adams Administration’s Vulnerable Buildings Action Plan.
Landmarks Preservation Commission Chair Sarah Carroll said, “The launch of Portico represents a transformation of the Commission’s permitting process – and the latest example of the Commission’s commitment to ensuring transparency, efficiency, and accessibility across every aspect of the agency’s work. Portico is designed to reflect the needs of property owners today by making it easier and more efficient to file for permits for work on New York City’s landmark buildings and sites, and will serve as a powerful tool in our shared mission to safeguard our city’s historic resources in the years to come. Our thanks to the Office of Technology and Innovation for their partnership as we worked to develop Portico.”
Steven Bezman, Deputy Commissioner of Applications, Office of Technology and Innovation said, “The Office of Technology and Innovation is proud to support city agencies and organizations on their efforts to provide New Yorkers with more user-friendly interactions with their government. LPC’s Portico modernizes the landmarks permitting process by providing building owners with an optimized digital experience that makes it easier to file, access, and receive status updates on applications.”
By: Meg Beauregard (Meg is the CityLaw intern, and a New York Law School student, Class of 2024).