Sidewalk and Roadways Construction Permits (general)

A licensed professional, like a contractor or engineer, usually handles this permit. Property owners are required to maintain sidewalks, or provide sidewalks in the case of new construction, for public use.

Building owners need permits to:

• Build any structure over the sidewalk, like a canopy.
• Place any sidewalk furniture.
• Repair the sidewalk.

You also need permits to:

• Use sidewalks for storing equipment or supplies.
• Block pedestrian access to any part of a sidewalk during construction.

These permits and provisions help ensure public safety.

• Identification numbers: Corporations or partnerships need an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Sole proprietors can use their Social Security number.
  Learn more about Employer Identification Numbers (EINs).
• Tax information: Provide a copy of your EIN or Tax ID number from the IRS.
• Authorized representatives: List all people you authorize to obtain permits for you. Include their affiliation to you and their phone number.
• Business documents: Provide a copy of your incorporated papers, license, business certificate or filing receipt filed with the State of New York.
• DCWP license: If your permit is being issued in conjunction with a Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) license, you must have received the license from DCWP. Include the license number on the registration form.
• Insurance and bonds: Contractors must show original insurance certificates for Commercial General Liability (CGL) and worker's compensation insurance. If needed, submit an original permit bond to the Permit Office. If you hire a contractor, they must provide the insurance requirements before you get a permit. The insurance documents must match the name and address of the company applying for the permit.
• Work location diagram: Provide an exact diagram of the work location. Include details like north arrow, sidewalk/street widths, distances to curbs, building lines and corners. A professional architect or licensed engineer must typically file and seal these diagrams.

• Do not include those fees or requirements charged or requested by any contractor or third party you hire to do this work on your behalf.

• Register and apply: Registered permittees can apply, pay for and print their permits anytime using the NYCStreets Permit Management online system at www.nycstreets.net. You can submit, pay for and print permits 24/7, but the review process happens only during normal weekday Permit Office hours.