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

What is NYC ZR § 65-21?

Quick Answer

This section modifies provisions for the reconstruction of non-conforming uses and non-complying buildings damaged by severe disasters. It allows reconstruction of non-conforming uses if damaged over 50% and non-complying buildings if damaged over 75%. Applies to property owners affected by severe disasters.

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 →

§ 65-21 Reconstruction Provisions

ZR § 65-21

In all districts, where the provisions of this Section are utilized, the provisions of Article V, Chapters 2 (Non-Conforming Uses) and 4 (Non-Complying Buildings) shall be modified to allow the reconstruction of buildings or other structures containing non-conforming uses and non-complying buildings or other structures, that were damaged due to the effects of the severe disaster, as follows:

(a)Section 52-53 (Buildings or Other Structures in All Districts), inclusive, shall be modified to allow the reconstruction of a non-conforming use where a building or other structure containing such use is damaged to the extent of 50 percent or more due to the effects of a severe disaster. In addition, for the purpose of this paragraph, the provisions of Section 52-60 (DISCONTINUANCE) shall not apply to such damaged building or other structure with non-conforming uses; and

(b)Section 54-40 (DAMAGE OR DESTRUCTION IN NON-COMPLYING BUILDINGS) shall be modified to allow the reconstruction of a non-complying building or other structure where such building or other structure is damaged to the extent of 75 percent or more due to the effects of a severe disaster.

For the purpose of applying waterfront and parking regulations, buildings reconstructed pursuant to this Section shall not be considered developments or enlargements.

Common Questions

Our team

Meet the people you will work with

Free case review

Have a matter that touches § 65-21?

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