NYC Place of Assembly Permit and Certificate of Operation
A place of assembly is a space where large groups of people gather at one time: restaurants, theaters, arenas, schools, houses of worship, auditoriums and more.
When a place of assembly certificate is needed
If 75 or more people gather indoors, or 200 or more outdoors, the space needs a Place of Assembly Certificate of Operation from the Department of Buildings.
What the plans must show
A registered design professional (RDP) prepares the plans, which are filed with the Department of Buildings. The plans address exits, occupant load, accessibility, travel distances to the exits, and the seating and furniture layout. The RDP determines whether a sprinkler or fire alarm system is required.
Before the space can open
The capacity sign showing how many people can legally occupy the space must be posted, and the Certificate of Operation must be displayed in a conspicuous place. The approved plans must be kept on site for the Fire Department's annual inspection. After DOB issues the Certificate of Operation, the Fire Department issues the Place of Assembly permit and renews it each year based on its inspection.
When an amendment is required
An amendment must be filed at DOB if any of these change:
- the establishment name
- the seating plan
- the use or assembly group
Let S & M Expediting help you plan your place of assembly filing. Call 718-833-2333.