Local Law 11 in Queens

Queens has fewer FISP-obligated buildings than Manhattan or Brooklyn, but the inventory is concentrated in specific neighborhoods — primarily Long Island City, Flushing, and Jamaica.

All buildings in Queens that are six stories or taller must comply with Local Law 11 / FISP. The requirements are the same citywide — a QEWI inspects the facade, classifies conditions as Unsafe, SWARMP, or Maintenance, and files the report with the DOB. What varies by borough is the building stock, the facade materials, and the specific challenges that QEWIs encounter.

Building Stock

Queens' facade-obligated buildings are predominantly midcentury brick apartment buildings (6–20 stories), with a growing inventory of new-construction towers in Long Island City and Flushing.

Notable Neighborhoods

• Long Island City — rapid high-rise development, modern facades
• Flushing — dense mixed-use corridor, brick and newer panel
• Jamaica — midcentury apartment buildings and new mixed-use development
• Forest Hills — prewar co-ops, brick and masonry
• Astoria — midcentury brick buildings approaching 6-story threshold

What QEWIs Should Know

Long Island City's waterfront development means many buildings face river exposure — salt-laden wind accelerates facade deterioration compared to inland buildings of the same age and material.

Filing Deadlines

FISP deadlines are based on your building’s BIN (Building Identification Number), not its borough. Check your building’s Cycle 9 sub-cycle deadline by looking up the last digit of your BIN.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Buildings that miss their filing deadline face DOB violations, accumulated fines, and potential sidewalk shed requirements. See LL11 Penalties and What to Do If You’re Late.