What’s New in the NYC LPC Permit Guidebook 2025: Key Updates Every Property Owner and Professional Should Know

The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) released the long-anticipated 2025 edition of its Permit Guidebook, marking the first major update since 2019. This new edition brings several important changes aimed at streamlining the application process, expanding staff-level review authority, and encouraging sustainable improvements to landmarked properties.

If you’re a property owner, architect, contractor, or preservation consultant working on designated landmarks or within historic districts, here’s what you need to know about the changes—and what actions you should consider to stay compliant.

Mandatory Use of Portico for All LPC Filings

One of the most significant changes in the 2025 guidebook is the requirement to submit all permit applications through LPC’s online portal, Portico. Paper and email submissions are no longer accepted.

What This Means for You:

• All users must have a Portico account.

• Applications can be managed, tracked, and downloaded digitally.

• The system supports multi-user collaboration—consultants and owners can view shared applications.

Expanded Staff-Level Approvals

The new guidebook reflects updated LPC rules that allow staff-level approval for a wider range of work—which speeds up the permitting process for qualifying projects.

Now eligible for staff-level review:

• Solar panel installations on historic buildings that meet design criteria.

• Flood resiliency upgrades, including flood barriers and wet-proofing.

• Outdoor dining structures in historic districts under the Dining Out NYC initiative.

This expanded authority aims to remove unnecessary barriers for projects that are consistent with preservation goals while aligning with citywide sustainability and resiliency priorities.

New Digital Mapping Tools for Research and Compliance

Alongside the guidebook, LPC launched several enhanced digital tools:

• Discover NYC Landmarks Map: Find property histories, landmark status, and historic photos.

• Archaeology Report Finder: Useful for determining if additional review is required on your site.

These tools offer valuable research capabilities for both professionals and the public, making it easier to understand landmark contexts and ensure project eligibility.

Why This Update Matters

The previous guidebook, issued in 2019, aligned with the 2018 rule changes but did not account for post-COVID needs, resiliency strategies, or the push for solar integration. The 2025 update addresses these gaps while reinforcing LPC’s commitment to efficiency and accessibility.

NYC LPC Permit Guidebook 2025 Compliance Considerations

To remain compliant under the updated guidebook:

• Use Portico exclusively for all filings.

• Review staff-level approval criteria to identify qualifying projects early.

• If planning solar, flood resiliency, or dining-related work on a landmark property, consult the new guidance and determine if full Commission review is necessary.

• Engage a licensed architect or preservation consultant as needed to ensure your project aligns with LPC standards.

If you’re unsure how the NYC LPC Permit Guidebook 2025 changes impact your property or upcoming project, our team at BUILT Engineers can help. We specialize in navigating LPC regulations and managing regulatory filings on your behalf—from initial assessments to complete application packages submitted through Portico. Whether you're planning exterior work, sustainability upgrades, or interior alterations within a landmarked building, we’ll ensure your filings meet all current requirements and move through the approval process efficiently. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and streamline your next LPC submission.