NYC Letter of No Objection (LNO) Filing

A Letter of No Objection (LNO) is issued by the NYC Department of Buildings to confirm that DOB has no objection to a specific use, occupancy, or proposed work on a property. We help owners and developers obtain LNOs for legalizing spaces, confirming compliance, and moving projects forward.

What Is a Letter of No Objection?

A Letter of No Objection is an official DOB document stating that the Department of Buildings has reviewed a specific aspect of a building or project and has no objections regarding compliance with applicable building codes, zoning regulations, and other relevant laws. An LNO is often required before obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy, closing on a property sale, or legalizing an existing use.

When You Need a Letter of No Objection

• Legalizing an existing apartment, basement unit, or accessory space
• Confirming use group or occupancy classification before a CO application
• Proposed changes during planning or construction that require DOB confirmation
• Resolving DOB violations related to illegal occupancy or unpermitted work
• Property sales or refinancing where buyers or lenders require DOB documentation

How the LNO Process Works

• Purpose: DOB confirms it has no objection to the specified use, occupancy, or scope of work after reviewing submitted information.
• Application: Property owners or developers request an LNO during planning or construction to verify proposed changes comply with codes and zoning.
• Review process: DOB reviews plans, surveys, and supporting documents. If requirements are met, the LNO is issued.
• Conditions and limitations: The LNO may include specific conditions. All listed requirements must be followed to remain in compliance.
• Documentation: The letter serves as official proof that DOB reviewed the project and found no objection to the specified aspects.
• Validity: An LNO is valid for a defined period. Changes to the project or expiration may require a new or updated LNO.

Steps to Obtain a Letter of No Objection

• Determine eligibility: Confirm whether your situation requires an LNO and identify the correct DOB filing type.
• Prepare documentation: Gather floor plans, surveys, lease information, and any prior DOB records for the property.
• Submit the application: File the LNO request through DOB NOW or at the appropriate borough office with required forms and fees.
• DOB review: DOB evaluates the submission for code and zoning compliance; revisions may be requested.
• Receive the LNO: Once approved, DOB issues the Letter of No Objection with any applicable conditions.
• Follow-up filings: Use the LNO as supporting documentation for CO applications, permit filings, or violation clearance as needed.

How We Help

• Eligibility review: We determine whether an LNO, CO, or permit filing is the correct path for your property.
• Application preparation: We compile plans, forms, and supporting documents required by DOB.
• DOB filing and tracking: We submit the LNO application and monitor status through approval.
• Violation clearance: We coordinate LNO filings as part of resolving illegal occupancy or unpermitted work violations.
• Next-step coordination: We connect LNO approval to CO applications, permits, and final sign-off.

Related Services

• Certificate of Occupancy — CO application and expediting
• Construction Permit — alteration and new building permits
• File Certificate of Correction — same-day DOB filing
• ECB / DOB Violations — violation dismissal and resolution
• Vacate Order — vacate order removal and compliance
• Contact Us — speak with a licensed NYC building expeditor