Notice of Sidewalk Violation (NOV) An official notice DOT sends a property owner when an inspection finds a defective sidewalk. It carries no fine on its own but starts a legal repair deadline.
An NOV identifies specific defective flags (the individual concrete squares) on the attached Preliminary Inspection Report and starts the 75-day repair window under Administrative Code § 19-152. A copy is filed with the County Clerk, which can complicate a sale or refinance until it's cleared. QuickFix Sidewalk NYC handles removal end to end: full-depth repairs to DOT spec, then a dismissal request through 311 so your property record gets updated. Ignoring the notice risks the city hiring its own contractor and billing you, usually at a higher cost than a private repair. More: nyc.gov/sidewalks
Frequently Asked Questions About Notice of Sidewalk Violation (NOV)
What is a Notice of Sidewalk Violation?
An official notice DOT sends a property owner after an inspection finds a defective sidewalk. It carries no fine by itself but starts a legal repair deadline.
How long do I have to repair after an NOV?
75 calendar days under Administrative Code 19-152, measured from delivery of the notice.
Which flags do I have to repair?
Only the specific flags marked on the attached Preliminary Inspection Report, not the entire frontage.
Does an NOV show up on a title search?
Yes. A copy is filed with the County Clerk and stays on the property record until DOT confirms the repairs and dismisses it.
What happens if I ignore it?
After the 75 days, DOT can hire its own contractor and have the Department of Finance bill the owner, usually at a higher cost than a private repair, with an unpaid bill becoming a lien.
Does repairing the sidewalk close the violation automatically?
No. A dismissal inspection must be requested through 311 and passed before the record is cleared.