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A big heads up to everyone as to what’s going on over at Buildings. I went to the Construction Code presentation that the DoB gave at the Javits Center on Friday, as a way of introducing the new IBC to architects and engineers. The new code is becoming mandatory as of next summer, and is a complete overhaul of the code and permitting process from top to bottom (current code is now 40 years old).

The new code revamps basically any subject you’ll see posted about DoB procedure on this forum. Among the new approaches the City will have:

-Permit fees will depend on how green the proposed project is, with credits for water conservation, using recycled materials, etc.

-Certificate of Occupancy issues are revamped. You do not need to change a C of O if you are changing the number of bedrooms or habitable spaces in the new code.

-The MEA process is thrown out. You might not be familiar with this, but it is one of the biggest changes in the code. Basically any material or mechanical system in the city right now has to have an MEA number to be approved, a hugely cumbersome process. This is epic and it’s the change I am happiest about.

-Occupancy groups, building bulk, allowable construction type are not just changed but completely rethought.

The new code is actually in effect now, as an optional “grey” period where you can submit if you want. From what they outlined in Friday’s presentation, there are some serious advantages to using the new code even now. I wish I could be more specific but the presentation was just an introduction (although it was 5 hours) and I have not seen a copy of the new code myself.