City
Building permits
Photo: Jim.henderson · CC BY 4.0
Takes effect
Right away, except the waterfront move (December 31, 2030, or sooner if a new waterfront code is adopted).
On the ballot as
Simplify Building Permitting and Move Waterfront Permitting to Department of Buildings
Create centralized construction permits hub to simplify permitting. Move waterfront permitting from Department of Small Business Services to Department of Buildings. Allow construction approval by additional Department of Buildings officials.
Photo: Jim.henderson · CC BY 4.0
Proposal 4 · New York City Charter
One place to get building permits.
Puts building permit applications in one online system and moves waterfront permits to the Buildings Department.
Your vote
Yes
One online system for every building permit by 2030. More Buildings officials can sign off on plans. Waterfront permits move to the Department of Buildings.
No
Leave the permitting system as it is.
Each side
The case for Yes
One permit system instead of separate ones at each agency means fewer delays, so housing and other projects can start sooner.
The case for No
Moving permit power into one agency and letting more officials approve plans could weaken review of construction projects.
Takes effect
Right away, except the waterfront move (December 31, 2030, or sooner if a new waterfront code is adopted).
On the ballot as
Simplify Building Permitting and Move Waterfront Permitting to Department of Buildings
Create centralized construction permits hub to simplify permitting. Move waterfront permitting from Department of Small Business Services to Department of Buildings. Allow construction approval by additional Department of Buildings officials.
Sources
NYC Campaign Finance Board · 2026-10
2026 NYC Voter Guide (mailed to every household)
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NYC Votes (NYC Campaign Finance Board)
2026 Ballot Proposals
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League of Women Voters of the City of New York
Proposals on the Ballot in New York City in the 2026 General Election
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NYC Mayor's Office · 2026-07-23
COGE Releases 5 Ballot Proposals and Final Report
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