Local Laws 92 and 94 of 2019, codified at NYC Building Code section 1511.7, require most new buildings and major roof replacements to install a reflective sustainable roofing zone or rooftop solar across at least 100 percent of available roof area.
Effective November 2019, Local Laws 92 and 94 added a sustainable roofing requirement that pairs the existing white-roof rule from Local Law 21 of 2011 with a green-roof or solar mandate. New buildings, major roof replacements, and additions must cover the full available roof area with a sustainable system unless the roof is shaded, mechanically obstructed, or used for occupancy. The Department of Buildings enforces compliance through plan review and TR1 special inspection. Voluntary participants in the NYC Cool Roofs program coordinated by the Department of Citywide Administrative Services and the Sustainable South Bronx receive free white coating for low-income and nonprofit-owned buildings.
Failing to install the sustainable roofing zone violates Building Code section 1511.7 and stops a Certificate of Occupancy. Civil penalties under Admin Code section 28-202.1 reach $25,000 plus $1,000 per day for continuing non-compliance.
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