Completing a Gas Piping Project in NYC: Requirements for Permit Signoff and DOB Closeout

Gas piping projects in New York City involve a series of critical regulatory steps that must be met before a project can be signed off and closed out. Most gas piping work is required to be permitted unless it it emergency work or falls into the category of ordinary repairs and replacements. Some minor work that is limited in scope may qualify for filing under a Limited Alteration Application (LAA), which is a streamlined process for certain types of repair or replacement. A Licensed Master Plumber (LMP) files the necessary paperwork instead of an engineer.

Regardless of the filing method, gas piping projects must comply with the NYC Fuel Gas Code and follow DOB inspection protocols. The work must be tested, inspected, and documented before it can be signed off and the permit closed. This blog explains the required steps for a typical gas piping project, including testing procedures, inspection requirements, and closeout documentation.

Gas Piping Installation Requirements

NYC Fuel Gas Code – Key Compliance Points (FGC Section 406):

Gas Pipe Test: Must include the outlet side of the meter to the appliance; use a 5 PSI gauge for a 3 PSI test in low-pressure systems.

Drip Legs: Prohibited on new risers unless manufacturer-required.

Appliance Valves: Required; future tees are not permitted.

Penetrations: Steel sleeve required for foundation or load-bearing wall penetrations; fire stopping required for all others.

Gas Flex: Only commercial cooking equipment on wheels with restraints may use commercial gas flex. For residential, only stoves, ovens, and dryers may use a gas flex line, all others must be hard-piped.

Color Coding: All gas piping must be labeled every 5 feet with yellow tape marked "Gas" in black letters. Labels must be present at the time of the gas test.

Inspections Required to Complete the Project

DOB Plumbing Inspections:

• Underground piping

• Rough-in inspections (In-wall or ceiling)

• Piping Pressure Tests

• Finish inspections (Fixtures, equipment)

• Final inspection for sign-off

Special & Progress Inspections

As per Building Code Chapter 17 and Fuel Gas Code Section 406, many gas piping projects require Special Inspections. Special inspections for gas piping projects can include the following:

• Welded Gas Piping (High Pressure) – FGC 403.1.1

• Fire-Resistance Penetrations & Joints – BC 1704.27

• Seismic Isolation of Piping – BC 1707.8

• Post-Installed Anchors – BC 1704.32

LMP Self-Certification (When Permitted)

Licensed Master Plumbers (LMPs) may self-certify plumbing inspections if the scope of work qualifies. This process requires submitting a notice of intent with the planned inspection dates and completing an online submission of the inspection results. However, self-certification is not permitted for work that involves sidewalk heaters, micro turbines, or jeweler torches.

Gas Authorization

Gas authorization is the Department of Buildings’ (DOB) formal approval for utility gas service to be turned on at a property following gas piping work. It serves as the final administrative clearance confirming that the gas piping system has been properly installed, tested, inspected, and documented in accordance with the NYC Fuel Gas Code and all applicable DOB requirements.

To obtain gas authorization, the Licensed Master Plumber (LMP) must complete all required inspections—either through DOB or by self-certification if permitted—and submit necessary documents such as pressure test results, LMP and welder affidavits, equipment installation confirmations, and any required FDNY or special inspection approvals. The gas piping must also be properly labeled, and all safety systems (e.g., flue connections, control wiring, ventilation) must be fully installed and operational.

Once approved, DOB issues gas authorization, allowing the utility company (e.g., Con Edison or National Grid) to legally unlock the gas meter and supply gas to the building. Without this authorization, the utility cannot restore or initiate gas service.

Key Requirements for Gas Authorization Approval

• Gas Test Inspection: Cannot be more than one year old

• Flue, venting, safety controls must be installed for water heaters, dryers, HVAC units

• Fire protection: Inspections must be completed if associated with gas authorization

• FDNY Fire Suppression Letter: Required for non-residential cooking appliances

• Boiler inspections and sign-off: Required if applicable

• LMP affidavit for residential stoves and dryers which are not installed prior to gas authorization.

• Gas-fired equipment that is not ready for gas authorization must be separated by a lock wing valve.

Commissioning for Equipment >600kBTU/h

If your project involves equipment with input capacities over 600,000 BTU/h:

• Preliminary commissioning report must be submitted to DOB before sign-off

• Final commissioning report due within 90 days after sign-off (Required by NYC Energy Code C408)

Final Close-Out and DOB Signoff for Gas Piping Projects

Once all inspections, gas tests, special inspections, and commissioning reports (if applicable) are completed:

• Submit final inspection request through DOB NOW: Inspections

• Finalize all necessary paperwork including:

  • Gas Authorization approval

  • LMP and/or welder affidavits

  • Special Inspection sign-offs

  • Commissioning documentation (if applicable)

• Request permit signoff in DOB NOW: Inspections

• Request a Letter of Completion in DOB NOW to signoff the gas piping project

Successfully completing a gas piping project in NYC and obtaining DOB sign-off is a multifaceted process that involves close coordination between the owner, LMP, design professionals, inspection agencies, and DOB. By understanding the requirements and planning accordingly, you can ensure a smooth path to gas service restoration or new system activation—with full compliance.

BUILT Engineers provides engineering support tailored to gas piping projects, including code consulting, permit filing assistance, coordination with Licensed Master Plumbers, and preparation of required documentation for DOB closeout. If you're planning a gas piping alteration or need help resolving an open DOB filing, contact our team today to ensure your project meets all regulatory requirements and stays on track for approval.