The Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) is one of the most notorious City agencies you can run into during development. Their process differs so much from the typical NYC development cycle, that it often shapes the entire planning and strategy of the project.
Getting a project approved through Landmarks requires, first, a good understanding of how the agency actually runs. There are basically two sides to the LPC: The Staff and the Commissioners.
The LPC Staff intakes your project, and depending on the scope, has authority to approve your proposed work. This includes renovating a storefront, or making a small vertical or rear extension that does not have a visible effect on the street.
For larger projects, the LPC Staff works collectively with the owner and design team advising and refining the plans to get it ready. The first stop is the Community Board meeting, which can at times be contentious. Once that hurdle is cleared, the next step is to present the project at Landmarks Commission hearing where the Commissioners vote it up or down. Do not be surprised if they require multiple revisions.
Our advice is to work closely with the LPC Staff who are very helpful. With some good listening and patience, they can lead you down the right path to an approval. Just make sure to add a good 6-12 months to your permitting timeline.
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