Updated: October 28, 2025
Effective October 28, 2025, the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) has revised permit requirements for articulating boom cranes and rotating telehandlers. These changes, outlined in recent amendments to 1 RCNY 3319-01, affect how construction teams operate and obtain approvals for this equipment on job sites.
Key Definitions
- Articulating Boom Crane: For these rules, this means a crane attached to a commercial truck chassis (not a pedestal, crawler base, or fixed structure).
- Rotating Telehandler: Covered under the same new rules.
- Note: Licensing requirements remain separate—most operations still require a licensed hoisting machine operator and, for suspended loads, supervision by a licensed rigger or competent rigging supervisor.
When Do You Need a Certificate of On-Site Inspection (CN)?
A CN from DOB is required before using the equipment if any of these apply:
- The boom (including extensions) exceeds 135 ft.
- Lifting a load over 100 ft.
- Equipment is set up on a steel platform (not ground-level mats/dunnage).
- Manufacturer’s rated capacity is over 50 tons.
Application must be filed by a NY State licensed professional engineer.
When Is a Construction Equipment Permit Required?
- If the site requires a construction superintendent, you need a construction equipment permit for the equipment—unless a CN is already required (CN trumps permit).
- Permit application is also filed by a NY State licensed professional engineer.
Notable Exemptions & Grandfathering (Until Jan 1, 2028)
- No construction equipment permit is needed for certain activities, even at construction superintendent sites, such as:
- Installing/removing HVAC, electrical, plumbing, telecom, or similar equipment on roofs/exteriors.
- Work within foundation/excavation confines.
- Pick-and-carry operations (if material isn’t raised more than 12 ft and area is closed to the public).
- One-off material/equipment deliveries/removals (with strict handling and time limits).
If any CN criteria are met, a CN is still required.
Additional Considerations
- Type of Work & Site: Permit/CN requirements are determined by equipment use and site supervision, not by work type or building classification.
- Exemptions: Certain work and sites (e.g., commercial plants, sidewalk sheds, tree trimming, etc.) may be exempt as detailed in the NYC Building Code and RCNY.
- Application Details: Construction documents must specify equipment, setup, lifting radius, ground conditions, and more.
- Operator Responsibilities: Operators must have permit/CN copies and follow all construction document details—no exceptions if there’s a mismatch on-site.
- Construction Superintendent: Must not allow operation without required permits or CNs.
DOT & MTA Requirements
- Street/sidewalk closures require a DOT permit.
- Work within 200 feet of MTA property requires MTA approval.
- Exemptions from DOB permits do not exempt you from DOT/MTA rules.
What’s Coming in 2028?
- Certificate of Approval: Required for equipment needing a CN.
- Annual Inspection & Registration: All such equipment must be inspected and registered, receiving a Certificate of Operation.
If you’re part of our New York City construction industry and would like to keep informed of new developments and how your project could be affected, we invite you to sign up for our mailing list. We’ll also send you our complimentary, comprehensive guide to New York City DOB’s new Chapter 33 Building Code revisions.
Cahill Strategies Construction Solutions Guide to NYC Building Code Chapter 33 Revisions
Cahill Strategies has developed a detailed and documented guide to the most important revisions that New York construction professionals are likely to encounter every day. We were able to do this because Cahill Strategies has been involved instrumentally in the development of these codes.
The 100-page book is meticulously organized and can be used as a handy reference when many common issues arise. In each section, the specific revisions are highlighted, and the new information is presented in a clear and practical manner with further explanation on why the change is so important. All of this, reviewed and vetted by one of New York’s longest serving, former DOB professionals – Cahill Strategies’ Director of Construction Code & Safety, Bobby D’Alessio.
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Cahill Strategies is a team comprised of skilled construction industry strategists dedicated to guiding clients through the intricate regulatory and political landscape, resulting in propelling projects within New York City to completion. Our expertise lies in representing large general contractors, sub-contractors, construction management firms, design professionals, and owners/developers.
- Liaising with City and State regulatory agencies such as NYC DOB, DOT, FDNY, DEP, Landmarks, HPD, DOF, DOH, DOE, and others;
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Cahill Strategies has experience representing large general contractors, construction management firms, owners, and developers. A key to our success is our vast network of decision makers that we have the ability to reach on your behalf. Additionally, our team is involved in the legislative and regulatory processes at the Federal, State, and Local levels which affect the construction industry in New York State, New York City, and surrounding regions. We possess the knowledge of industry standards and trends, along with key relationships that will bring your projects to fruition. Read more…
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Get to know Bobby D’Alessio
Robert “Bobby” D’Alessio, is a former New York City Department of Buildings Senior Executive Director of Construction Safety. Mr. D’Alessio’s focus is predominately in the areas of construction code and safety analysis for our clients’ major new building and renovation projects in the New York City and surrounding regions.
As Cahill Strategies’ Director of Construction Code and Safety, Bobby brings an unparalleled level of knowledge and practical experience to our growing construction solutions practice area.
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Get to know Kevin Moran
Kevin, the Vice President of Construction Solutions at Cahill Strategies, brings a wealth of experience in the New York construction industry to his role. He has a strong track record of guiding clients through complex building processes, with a range of successful projects under his belt, including commercial and residential developments, infrastructure and transportation projects, and various utility matters.
