Everything You Need to Know About a Letter of No Objection (LNO) in NYC

When navigating New York City building regulations—especially for older properties—a Letter of No Objection (LNO) can be an essential document. It serves as official confirmation from the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) that they have no objection to your building’s current or proposed use.

 

What Is an LNO?

An LNO is a formal letter issued by the DOB, most often for buildings constructed before 1938 which may not have a Certificate of Occupancy (CO). It confirms that the building's use is not in conflict with current zoning or building codes.

Why Would You Need One?

• Proof of legal use when selling or refinancing a property without a CO
• Opening a business like a restaurant, office, or daycare in a space without a CO
• Applying for licenses such as liquor, fire safety, or other permits
• Documenting grandfathered uses not reflected in DOB records

Typical Use Cases

• Selling or leasing a pre-1938 townhouse or commercial building
• Starting a business in an old storefront lacking a CO
• Securing financing or fire safety approval that requires documented legal use

The LNO Process

1. Verify CO Status

Start by checking DOB records to see if a Certificate of Occupancy exists. If it does, you likely won’t need an LNO.

2. Gather Supporting Documentation

• Property profile and job history from DOB NOW
• Historic architectural plans or surveys
• Maps (Sanborn, Belcher-Hyde, etc.)
• Photos, leases, utility bills to support use history

3. Submit Your Application

Submit the LNO request with all documentation and the applicable DOB form and fee at the relevant borough office.

4. DOB Review

The DOB reviews the use history, zoning, and building status. Any open violations or conflicting info may delay approval.

5. Outcome

If approved, you’ll receive a signed Letter of No Objection. If denied, further actions may be required, such as filing for a new CO.

How Long Does It Take?

Standard processing usually takes 3 to 4 weeks. More complex properties or those with violations may take longer.

Tips for Approval

• Clear any open DOB or ECB violations
• Be precise about the use type (e.g., “2-family dwelling”, “retail store”)
• Work with a professional expediter to avoid delays

How We Can Help

NYC Building Violation Removal & Expediting LLC can assist with:

• Researching your building’s history and CO status
• Preparing all LNO documents
• Submitting the application to the DOB
• Resolving violations or conflicting records

We’ve helped numerous clients obtain LNOs quickly, whether for real estate sales, business openings, or property refinancing.

Contact Us Today

Need help obtaining a Letter of No Objection?
Contact NYC Building Violation Removal & Expediting LLC for expert assistance.

Email: nycviolationremovalinc@gmail.com
Phone: 347-828-1917

Website: nycbuildingviolationremoval.com

Trust the experts in NYC violation removal and property compliance.