Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) The city agency that reviews and approves exterior changes to designated landmark buildings and properties within historic districts, including certain sidewalk work.
If a property sits within a historic district or is an individual landmark, sidewalk repairs — especially those involving distinctive materials like bluestone, decorative scoring, or vault lights — may need LPC approval such as a Certificate of No Effect or a Permit for Minor Work before DOT's standard permit process can move forward. This adds a review step most standard concrete sidewalk repairs never encounter. Owners in landmarked areas should confirm LPC requirements early, since skipping this step can delay a project regardless of how quickly DOT's own permit is approved.
Frequently Asked Questions About Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC)
When does the Landmarks Preservation Commission review sidewalk work?
When the property is an individual landmark or sits in a historic district, particularly where distinctive materials such as bluestone, decorative scoring or vault lights are involved.
What approvals might be required?
Commonly a Certificate of No Effect or a Permit for Minor Work, depending on the scope, before DOT's permit process can move forward.
Does LPC review add time?
Yes. It is an additional review that standard concrete repairs never encounter, so it should be identified early in planning.
What happens if LPC approval is skipped?
The project can be delayed or stopped regardless of how quickly the DOT permit is issued, and non-conforming work may have to be removed.
How do I know if my property is landmarked?
Check the LPC's designation maps and property lookup at https://www.nyc.gov/site/lpc/index.page