In this article we will delve into the requirements for a Place of Assembly applications, there may be additional requirements with regards to zoning, construction codes, multiple dwelling, energy code compliance and the likes that maybe needed before a permit can be issued.

What is a Place of Assembly?
A Place of Assembly is a place where large groups of people are gathered for various activities. If the gathering is indoors or on roofs with at least 75 people or 200 or more outdoors, the DOB will then require a Place of Assembly Certificate of Operation.

Assembly places can be anything from restaurants to museums, theaters and auditoriums or sports arenas even churches.

Assembly spaces comes with it, safety issues and the NYC Building and Administrative Codes regulate them. Issues concerning occupant load limit, exits, exit components, seating and furniture arrangement plus fire alarms, sprinkler systems as well as accessibility for the handicapped should be addressed before a particular space can be used as a place of assembly. Before they can operate legally, places of assembly must have a Certificate of Operation posted along with the place’s capacity sign. These two should be highly visible and within the location of the space being utilized.

Applications for Place of Assembly Certification of Operation can only be approved upon full construction (including procurement of all necessary work permits) of the place in question.

Some Conditions

• A separate application is required to amend the number of occupants on the Certificate of Occupancy of that particular space if the number of occupants for the proposed place of assembly is being changed.
• If the place of assembly is to service more than 300 people, then a fire protection plan must also be filed with the NYC Fire Department and the Department of Buildings under a separate application.
• The Fire Department together with the DOB also completes fire safety inspections for assembly spaces and the Fire Code governs the requirements for public gatherings (Temporary Place of Assembly), it regulates standing areas, safety announcements, fire guards, inspections, egress, evacuation plans as well as access to fire equipment.

Keep in mind that this is just an overview of Place of Assembly requirements and it is always best to consult the expert to ensure compliance and avoid any penalty. In this regard, P.Wolfe Consultants, your premier permit expediters, is always ready to assist you with any inquiry, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to assist you.