What is zoning?
All of New York City is mapped in the Zoning Resolution. How a property
is used and what could be built on it are determined by the zoning.
There are three use categories - residential, commercial and manufacturing.
Each category is further defined by number and letter suffixes that
designate types of uses and the required physical character (i.e.
height, size, open space) of buildings in those zoning districts.
What can I build on my property?
Based upon the zoning we can give you a general description of what
could be built. For a more definitive answer you have to consult
an architect or engineer, preferably experienced in New York City
land use practice, who would take the proper measurements and draft
plans according to the zoning requirements.
What's the zoning
for this address? How do I get a copy of a
zoning map?
The Zoning Resolution contains the zoning map sections. If you have
a specific location, we could look it up for you. If you are interested
in a general area the Zoning Resolution is available here at Borough
Hall, Room 226 for review Monday through Friday 9 A.M. to 5 P.M..
The zoning maps are also available online at http://www.ci.nyc.ny.us/planning.
How do I report possibly illegal construction
or uses going on in my neighborhood?
The Department of Buildings (DOB) is responsible for enforcement
of the Zoning Resolution. DOB makes the necessary inspections and
issues summonses as warranted. DOB inspections are conducted after
receiving complaints about possible violations from the local Community
Boards, elected officials or directly from concerned citizens. You
can contact Queens DOB at 1-718-520-3402.
What is as-of-right?
A term referring to activities which may be undertaken or benefits
which may be enjoyed without discretionary approval of some level
of government. An as-of-right building is one which requires no change
in the existing zoning, building code, special permit or variance.
What are the population characteristics
of my neighborhood?
We have copies of census and other demographic information, organized
by Queens Community Boards, that was compiled by the Department of
City Planning. You could also go online to the Bureau of the Census
webpage at http://www.census.gov.
What is BSA and
ULURP?
BSA is the acronym
for the Board of Standards and Appeals, a New
York City agency. BSA can grant a variance
or special permit for proposed development
at a specific site that does not meet the zoning
requirements. BSA variances or special permits
are subject to public review and are granted
if the proposed development can meet specific
findings that the project will have a minimal
impact on the neighborhood.
ULURP is the acronym for the Uniform
Land Use Review Procedure, the New York City public review process
for land use changes. ULURP applications are filed with the Department
of City Planning, for a variety of projects that include zoning
map or text changes, special permits, city map changes, acquisition
or disposition of city-owned property.
BSA and ULURP applications are subject to public review starting
with the Community Boards. The Queens Borough President schedules
Land Use Public Hearings every three weeks. Items are calendared
at the completion of the Community Board's review period. Go to the
Planning & Development main page to see the Queens Borough President's
Land Use Public Hearing Schedule.
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