DOB will review all documents and supporting information, and forward approved abatement
applications to the NYC Department of Finance (DOF). DOF will review and, if appropriate,
apply the requested tax abatement.
CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS & DOCUMENTS**
The following information, prepared by an architect or engineer, must be included on construction
drawings submitted to DOB for the installation of a green roof system.
• Plot Plan that indicates the location of the building on the lot, as well as front, side and rear yard
dimensions, and include the Community District in which the property is located
• Roof Plan that indicates eligible roof space and green roof space with the net square footage of
each, and location of rooftop equipment demonstrating access is provided for maintenance.
Demonstrate or acknowledge that the installation does not obstruct firefighting access if
applicable.
• Structural Analysis that demonstrates the roof is capable of sustaining the added loads imparted
by the green roof in a saturated condition.
− Where the green roof is designed for live loads equal to or less than 20 psf as per BC section
1607.11.2.3 of the 2008 NYC Building Code a note stating the following should be present on
drawings: “The green roof and its perimeter are not for human occupancy.”
− Where a green roof is designed for live loads in accordance with table 1607.1 and section
1607.11.2.2 of the 2008 NYC Building Code, which- ever is greater, the note need not be
present on design drawings.
• Roof Details
Details should be adequate to depict the construction of the roof. Where applicable details should
include, but not be limited to:
− Details showing any structural modification to support the green roof
− Details showing typical structural connections
− Details showing typical roof drains; and
− Typical roof system, insulation and flashing details.
• Green Roof Details
− Details of the installation showing conditions at terminations, transitions and penetrations
− Layout for the internal drain conduit
− A profiled schematic showing the thickness of all materials; and
− Notes that include the species of vegetation (sedum or equally drought resistant species)
planted and acknowledging live plants will cover eighty percent of the vegetation layer by the
end of the compliance period.
**NOTE: Construction drawings are not required for green roofs of 4 inches or less. When construction
drawings are not required, the application must still be filed by a NYS registered and licensed architect or
engineer. In such cases, an architect or engineer must inspect and certify, based on a structural analysis of
the existing building, that the roof without modification can support the green roof in a saturated condition.
.