The new commercial containerization rules go into effect starting September 5th. Image Credit: DSNY.

On September 5, 2023, chain businesses with five or more locations citywide will be required to use rigid containers with secure lids when setting out trash curbside for collection. The rule is a part of the city’s ongoing push to control the rat population by restricting sources of food. The rule was finalized and published in the City Record on August 2nd.  (more…)

Mayor Adams and city officials announce the “Get Sheds Down” initiative. Image Credit: Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office.

Sidewalk sheds stay up for an average of over 500 days, but some stay up for several years. On July 24, 2023, Mayor Eric Adams and Department of Buildings Commissioner Jimmy Oddo announced “Get Sheds Down,” an overhaul of the rules relating to sidewalk construction sheds (scaffolding). While the sheds are required for construction, facade inspections, and repairs, existing laws often enable property owners to leave up the construction sheds for a long time, and can result in quality of life concerns. The “Get Sheds Down” plan aims to incentivize owners to expedite repairs, make traditional sheds more visually appealing, and find alternative safe solutions to scaffolding where appropriate.  (more…)

Mayor Adams announcing changes to containerization requirements for certain businesses. Image Credit: Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office.

On June 28, 2023, Mayor Eric Adams and Sanitation Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced the finalization of a new administrative rule requiring food-related businesses to put trash in secure containers. The announcement is the newest part of the city’s efforts to combat rodent infestations.  (more…)

Image Credit: NYC HPD and the Mayor’s Office.

The plan has been updated to reflect the City’s needs following the pandemic. On October 20, 2020, Mayor Bill de Blasio and the Deputy Mayor for Housing and Economic Development, Vicki Been, released the final Where We Live NYC Plan, the City’s plan for fair housing in the five boroughs. (more…)

Some areas of Staten Island that would be affected by rule changes. Image Credit: NYC DCP

The changes allow homeowners to bypass the lengthy review process for certain types of projects. On July 2, 2020, the Department of City Planning announced new proposed zoning rules for some Staten Island neighborhoods that make zoning rules more efficient and homeowner-friendly, and that reflect recent advances in environmental science. (more…)