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What is NYC ZR § 62-631?

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This section outlines the design requirements for public access areas on piers, including circulation paths, permitted obstructions, and seating provisions. The statute specifies dimensions and materials for structures within these areas. Applies to waterfront property owners developing or managing piers with public access requirements.

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

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§ 62-631 Design requirements for public access on piers

ZR § 62-631

The design requirements of this Section shall apply to waterfront public access areas on piers, pursuant to Section 62-54.

(a)Circulation and accessAt least one circulation path having a minimum clear width of 10 feet shall be provided throughout the public access area required on the pier.

(b)Permitted obstructionsIn addition to permitted obstructions pursuant to Section 62-611, pier public access areas may include one freestanding open or enclosed public pavilion, provided such structure does not exceed one story, is no taller than 30 feet and has an area no larger than 1,600 square feet. At least 50 percent of the perimeter wall area on all sides, up to a height of 15 feet, shall consist of clear or glazed materials which may include show windows, glazed transoms, glazed portions of doors or latticework. Such structures shall be exempt from building spacing requirements on piers provided they maintain a spacing of at least 12 feet from other buildings and from any water edge of the pier, except that when a pier is 30 feet or less in width, a pavilion may abut one water edge.In Community District 1 in the Borough of Brooklyn, any amenity accessory to docking facilities for ferries or water taxis shall be considered a permitted obstruction only where such amenity is certified by the Chairperson of the City Planning Commission in conjunction with the docking facility, pursuant to Section 62-813 (Docking facilities for ferries or water taxis in certain waterfront areas).

(c)SeatingAt least one linear foot of seating is required for every 100 square feet of pier public access area, subject to the provisions of paragraphs (a) through (d) of Section 62-652.

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