DOB NOW – simple explanation for homeowners.
DOB NOW is an online system created by the New York City Department Buildings (DOB*) to make it easier for homeowners and professionals to handle building permits, inspections, and other construction-related paperwork. Instead of visiting offices or dealing with piles of paper, you can use DOB NOW to see what’s happening with your property’s permits and filings from your computer or phone.
Core DOB NOW modules
- DOB NOW: Build – Used for job filings, plan submissions, permits, amendments, Certificates of Occupancy, Letters of Completion, and resolving objections for construction work.
- DOB NOW: Inspections – Used to request and schedule inspections, view inspection results, track objections, and certify certain corrections electronically.
- DOB NOW: Safety – Used for safety and compliance filings such as façade, elevator, boiler, and energy/emissions reports, and for paying or challenging certain related violations.
- DOB NOW: Licensing – Used by licensees and applicants to apply for, manage, and renew DOB‑issued licenses and qualifications (for example, site safety, gas work, welders).
- DOB NOW: BIS Options – Used to submit specific transactions that still live in the older BIS system, such as certain certificate of correction and civil penalty review requests.
Basically, DOB NOW puts all your building-related information in one easy-to-access place so you have better control and understanding of what’s going on with your home’s construction or renovation projects. If you want to start using DOB NOW, you usually create an account, enter your property details, and from there you can track permits, inspections, and communicate with the Department of Buildings without hassle.
This online service replaces an older, more complicated system, helping to speed up approvals and reduce confusion, making it friendlier for everyday homeowners to manage their building needs.
What a common homeowner can do using this system?
- You can check the status of your construction or renovation permits anytime.
- You can find out when inspections are scheduled and see the results.
- You can submit certain requests or documents online without having to go to a DOB office.
- It makes it simpler to keep track of any violations or required fixes related to your property. For example, you can track your kitchen renovation permit for Build.
Important information
- Things you cannot do yourself in DOB NOW (for example, filings that must be done by a registered design professional or contractor).
- You still need permits and licensed professionals even though the system is online.
The NYC Department of Buildings work impacts various stakeholders, including the public, workers, tenants, and property owners. It maintains safety standards across its approximately 1.1 million buildings. It is responsible for enforcing the City’s Construction Codes, Zoning Resolution, and New York State Multiple Dwelling Law. Its primary functions include: All these functions are supported through the DOB NOW platform.
- Ensuring safety in construction sites and existing buildings
- Regulating housing and commercial space development
- Overseeing the implementation of building codes and regulations
Related terms
Some glossary entries use an asterisk * at the end of the term (for example, violation* or permit*). This mark is only a technical tool on this website. It does not change the meaning of the word.
- expeditor*
- Zoning Resolution
- permitting
- inspections
- Department of Buildings
- approval
- BIS*
- Multiple Dwelling Law
- review
For a homeowner‑friendly walk‑through, see this external guide: DOB NOW
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