How to research NYC DOB permits and job filings

Use both current and legacy systems

NYC moved many workflows from the Building Information System (BIS) to DOB NOW over time. Research frequently requires the DOB NOW job-filing dataset, DOB NOW approved permits, and legacy BIS permit issuance data.

Coverage dates and included work types differ. Record which datasets answered and which were unavailable rather than treating one feed as a complete permit history.

Distinguish filing from permit

A job application can be filed, amended, disapproved, withdrawn, or remain in process. A permit record should be read for permit type, work type, issuance and expiration dates, status, applicant, and the job number connecting it to the filing.

Descriptions are useful clues but can be abbreviated or amended. Open the current official job and permit record before relying on scope.

• Match job and permit numbers, BIN, and address.
• Keep filing, approval, issuance, expiration, and sign-off dates distinct.
• Look for related certificate-of-occupancy records when occupancy is part of the question.

What permits do not establish

An issued permit does not by itself prove work was performed, inspected, signed off, consistent with every other approval, or free of later enforcement. An absence of permits does not prove that no work occurred or that a permit was legally unnecessary.

Create a time-based review

Order filings, permits, inspections, violations, and occupancy records by their own dates. LotContext builds that evidence timeline while preserving source status and links; decisions still require verification with DOB and, when appropriate, architects, engineers, counsel, or inspectors.