The DOB will no longer accept plan submissions for demolition sites that are exempt from the current code, and to clarify, these are exempt from plan submissions and not exemption for filing of demolition application.

1-, 2- and 3- Family Homes Full Demolition

For full demolition of the above grade portions of the following items will not require demolition submittal documents provided that the demolition is limited to handheld devices (handheld mechanical devices included):

• 1-, 2-, or 3- family detached dwelling that is 3 stories high or lower.
• Both halves of 1-, 2-, or 3-family dwelling that is semi-detached and is 3 stories high or lower.
• A detached accessory structure, like a detached garage for example, to a 1-, 2- or 3-family dwelling, even if the residential building itself is detached from its neighboring buildings or even if the residential building itself will be demolished.

1-, 2- and 3- Family Homes Foundation Removals

The foundation can be removed after a 1-, 2- or 3- family home has been demolished to grade, with the use of a handheld device or even a mechanical equipment, without submitting any demolition submittal documentation if the mechanical equipment used is not sustained on any prevailing structure other than the slab on grade (or a slab supported on soil) Although it might be worthy to note that requirements are still necessary for applications relating to the protection of the excavation as well as the adjoining property like provisions of shoring and sheeting, underpinning of adjoining property, backfilling and the likes.

Other Detached Buildings

Full demolitions of detached buildings other than 1-, 2- or 3-family homes, does not require submittal documents if the following conditions are met

• Only handheld devices and handheld mechanical devices are used in the demolition.
• Building is 3 stories or less.
• The building has a floor area of 5,000 square feet or less per floor.

The exception requires for the demolition of the above grade and foundation to be removed using handheld devices. The use of an excavator or non-handheld device to remove the building’s foundation will necessitate the need to submit demolition submittal documents.

Partial Demolitions

Partial demolitions using handheld devices done in the course of minor alterations and ordinary repairs also no longer requires demolition submittal documents.