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What is NYC ZR § 81-252?

Quick Answer

This section outlines the permitted obstructions that may exceed height limits or sky exposure planes under specific conditions. It details exceptions for unenclosed balconies and qualifying exterior wall thickness when buildings are enlarged. Applies to building owners managing compliance with height and setback regulations.

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

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§ 81-252 Permitted obstructions

ZR § 81-252

Except as set forth in this Section, structures which under the provisions of Sections 33-42 or 43-42 (Permitted Obstructions) or 34-11 or 35-10 (GENERAL PROVISIONS), are permitted to penetrate a maximum height limit or a sky exposure plane shall not be permitted as exceptions to the height limitations, setback requirements or rules for the measurement of encroachments or compensating recesses set forth in Section 81-26 (Height and Setback Regulations—Daylight Compensation), nor shall they be excluded in determining daylight blockage pursuant to the provisions of Section 81-27 (Alternate Height and Setback Regulations—Daylight Evaluation).

The following shall be permitted as exceptions to the height regulations, setback requirements or rules for the measurement of encroachments or compensating recesses, set forth in Section 81-26, and shall be excluded in determining daylight blockage, pursuant to the provisions of Section 81-27:

unenclosed balconies conforming to the provisions of Section 23-62 (Balconies); and

qualifying exterior wall thickness. Where buildings that have added exterior wall thickness pursuant to this Section are enlarged, such enlarged portion may similarly penetrate a maximum height limit in order to align with the exterior walls of the existing building, provided such enlargement contains less floor area than the existing building, and there is no penetration of floor area above a maximum height limit.

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