Board of Standards and Appeals (BSA)
The BSA is a five-member body that reviews and grants applications for certain special permits and variances under the NYC Zoning Resolution and also hears appeals of Department of Buildings determinations. NYC planning materials describe its role in granting variances where irregular physical conditions would otherwise prevent construction.
- Where it applies
- New York City
- When it comes up
- Entitlement; variance/special permit path; appeals
- Property types
- All (NYC)
In practice
BSA cases operate on a record-building model; operator success often depends on evidentiary completeness and a precise alignment between zoning findings and design drawings.
Related terms
Zoning and Land Use
- Air Rights
- Area Variance
- As-of-right Development
- Authorization
- Base Height
- Base Plane
- Building Envelope
- Bulk
- Certification
- Commercial Overlay
General information, not legal, tax or financial advice.