Brooklyn since 2014All five boroughsSame-day response during business hours

What is NYC ZR § 15-111?

Quick Answer

This section outlines the maximum number of dwelling units permitted based on district regulations, particularly Section 23-50. It specifies conditions for converting non-residential floor area to residences and includes provisions for mezzanines within dwelling units. Applies to building owners managing residential units in various zoning districts.

General informational summary. Not legal advice for your situation. Consult an attorney before acting on any specific matter.

Michael Nacmias - Founding PartnerMichael Sargo - Partner
From the team atNacmias Law Firm, PLLCBrooklyn-based attorneys representingproperty owners across all five boroughsMeet the team →

§ 15-111 Number of permitted dwelling units

ZR § 15-111

The maximum number of dwelling units permitted shall be determined in accordance with the applicable district regulations pursuant to Section 23-50 (DENSITY REGULATIONS), inclusive. Any floor area in excess of the district regulations shall be included in the amount of floor area to be divided by the dwelling unit factor, where applicable.

For the conversion of non-residential floor area to residences, pursuant to Section 74-71 (Landmark Preservation), in C7, C8 and Manufacturing Districts, the maximum number of dwelling units shall be determined by applying the density regulations set forth in Section 23-50 in accordance with the applicable geography.

In addition, the following provisions shall apply:

Dwelling units may be distributed anywhere within a building provided that any portion of a dwelling unit located in a cellar shall also comply with the provisions of Section 15-112 (Light and air provisions).

Mezzanines constructed pursuant to Chapter 26 of the Administrative Code shall be allowed within individual dwelling units provided that the gross area of such mezzanine does not exceed 33 1/3 percent of the floor area contained within such dwelling unit. Such mezzanines are permitted only in buildings with an existing floor area ratio of 12 or less, and only between floors, or between a floor and a roof, existing on January 22, 1998, that are to remain. Such mezzanines shall not be included as floor area for the purpose of calculating the minimum required size of a dwelling unit or for calculating floor area devoted to dwelling units.

The density provisions of this Section may be replaced by the regulations of Section 15-024 (Special bulk regulations for certain pre-existing dwelling units and joint living-work quarters for artists) for dwelling units that are registered Interim Multiple Dwellings or are covered by the New York City Loft Board pursuant to Article 7C of the New York State Multiple Dwelling Law or that the Loft Board determines were occupied for residential use on September 1, 1980.

Common Questions

Our team

Meet the people you will work with

Free case review

Have a matter that touches § 15-111?

Free 15-minute case review with the attorney handling your matter. Same-day response during business hours across all five boroughs — OATH hearings, Housing Court, and real estate closings.

Or email us

[email protected]

An attorney reads every message.

  • Same-day response

    During business hours

  • Direct attorney access

    Same lawyer from intake to close

  • Flat-fee pricing

    On most OATH and closing matters