Local Law 97: What NYC Building Owners Need to Know

What Local Law 97 is

Local Law 97 was enacted in 2019 as part of New York City’s Climate Mobilization Act. Its goal is to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions from the city’s buildings, which are among the largest sources of emissions in New York. The law sets limits on how much carbon covered buildings may emit, with those limits tightening over time.

This article is a general overview. The rules are detailed and continue to be refined through DOB rulemaking, so owners should confirm the current requirements and consult a qualified professional for their specific building.

Which buildings are covered

Local Law 97 generally applies to buildings over 25,000 square feet, as well as to certain groups of buildings on the same tax lot or owned by the same condominium association that together exceed that threshold. There are special provisions and alternative compliance paths for particular building types, including some affordable-housing and rent-regulated buildings.

Because the applicability rules have nuances, the first step for any owner is simply to determine whether — and how — the law applies to their property.

Emissions limits and deadlines

The law establishes emissions-intensity limits that vary by building occupancy type. An initial compliance period began in 2024, with more stringent limits scheduled to take effect in 2030 and further reductions targeted in later years, consistent with the city’s long-term climate goals.

Covered buildings are generally required to report their emissions, and buildings that exceed their limits may face penalties based on how far over the limit they are.

How owners can prepare

Preparing for Local Law 97 usually starts with benchmarking a building’s current energy use and emissions, then identifying cost-effective improvements. Common measures include upgrading heating and cooling systems, improving the building envelope, modernizing lighting and controls, and, where feasible, electrifying systems that currently burn fossil fuels.

Many of these measures are most economical when bundled into a planned renovation or capital project rather than done piecemeal. Bringing a contractor and energy professional into the conversation early helps owners sequence improvements sensibly and control cost.

• Benchmark current energy use and emissions.
• Identify which measures deliver the most emissions reduction per dollar.
• Coordinate upgrades with planned capital work where possible.
• Confirm reporting obligations and deadlines for your building.