City Council Votes to Approve Outdoor Dining Plan

After a year and a half since the bill was introduced, the Council finally votes to create a permanent outdoor dining program. On August 3, 2023, the City Council voted to approve Int 31-C, which establishes a permanent outdoor dining program. The program will allow sidewalk cafes to operate annually and roadway cafes to operate seasonally, with removable furniture and decor replacing solid dining shed structures. The program follows the temporary outdoor dining program that <Read More>


Landmarks Approves Rules to Improve Application Process for Upgrading Protected Properties

On July 11, 2023, Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) approved rules to expedite and simplify the application process for property owners seeking agency approval for certain upgrades to landmarked properties. The new rules will widen the scope of applications that staff can approve, eliminating the need for review by the full Commission at a public hearing.


City Announces Plan to Protect Vulnerable Landmarks

On April 7, 2023, Mayor Eric Adams, along with Landmarks Preservation Commission Chair Sarah Carroll and Buildings Acting Commissioner Kazimir Vilenchik announced a new action plan to improve enforcement tools to preserve historic buildings in New York City. The plan aims to protect landmarked buildings that are at risk of unknown structural conditions, neglect from owners, and negligence by contractors who work on site. The plan aims to enhance communication between Landmarks and Buildings to <Read More>


Council Adopts Law to Extend Waivers of Accessory Sign Violations

On March 19, 2023 the New York City Council adopted Local Law 43 (2023). The measure was originally introduced as Introduction 886 by Council Member Keith Powers in January 2023. The law extends a freeze on issuing penalties to property owners who are in violation of certain rules that govern accessory signage through January 1, 2025. A previous freeze was already put into place via Local Law 28 (2019) which started June of 2019.