NYC Local Law 97 Compliance for Multifamily

Understanding NYC Local Law 97 Compliance

New York City's Local Law 97 (LL97) is part of the Climate Mobilization Act and limits greenhouse gas emissions from large buildings. For multifamily owners it is an ongoing requirement, with limits that tighten over time.

Determining Your Portfolio's Obligations

The NYC Department of Buildings says LL97 generally applies to buildings over 25,000 gross square feet, and to two or more buildings on the same tax lot that together exceed 50,000 square feet. Emissions limits depend on occupancy type, so mixed-use properties need a weighted calculation. Check your building against the city's covered buildings list and make sure your floor area data is accurate.

Reporting Deadlines

Annual emissions reports are due May 1. For the 2025 filing (covering calendar year 2024), the city allowed a 60-day grace period through June 30, 2025, and owners could request an extension in the reporting portal that moved the deadline to August 29. Check the Department of Buildings site for the current year's deadline and any extension rules.

Penalties

Law firm summaries of the rule describe a penalty of $268 per metric ton of CO2e emitted over a building's limit, and $0.50 per square foot per month for failing to file the report. Confirm current amounts on the NYC Department of Buildings site before budgeting.

Planning Ahead

Emissions limits become stricter in later compliance periods, so treat LL97 as a long-term capital planning exercise. Energy audits, equipment upgrades and envelope improvements reduce exposure. Lead paint rules are a separate obligation; see our lead paint disclosure requirements guide.