Laws of the City of New York
A public access portal to the Charter, Administrative Code, and Rules of the City of New York.
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Summary of the Laws Enforced by DCA

Whether you are a consumer or a business, it is important to know the law. Most businesses know that their long term success and security depends on their honesty toward customers. There are laws in place to protect both consumers and honest businesses. The following laws are enforced by DCA.

Consumer Protection Law
The City’s Consumer Protection Law is designed to keep businesses from bilking consumers. It prohibits unfair trade practices when dealing in consumer goods or services – such as false advertising, phony sales, and special offers with hidden conditions. The law also lays out proper behavior in the collection of consumer debts.
 See the guide to this law

Licensing Law
The City has a Licensing Law that applies to 55 types of businesses. By licensing, DCA keeps tabs on businesses and can intervene directly when consumers have complaints. Licensed businesses are subject to sanctions and penalties if they violate any of the laws and rules the DCA enforces.
 Check the list of businesses that need a DCA license to operate in NYC

Weights and Measures Law
The City’s Weights and Measures law requires that any item must be sold by its true weight or measure. Scales must pass tests for accuracy, and the consumer should see the same numbers that the vendor sees. Consumers should not be charged for the extra weight of packaging material ('tare'). Violations of this law may lead to fines. 

Truth-In-Pricing Law
Careful shoppers compare prices. Businesses are free to charge what they like, and consumers are free to look elsewhere for a better price. When businesses give false information about an item, consumers get burned. That’s why the truth-in-pricing law requires that price displays provide adequate information to the consumer.Violators will be fined.

DCA offers free guides to help consumers and businesses understand City laws governing the marketplace. Guides help consumers know their rights when conducting transactions, and help businesses know their responsibilities.
 Visit the DCA Publications Web Page

City Requirements

Lead-Safe Paint Removal Methods
Lead paint is harmful. City law makes sure storeowners and customers know safe and legal paint removal methods. Storeowners must post a notice where visible to customers.
 Learn more (in PDF)
 Get in-store signage (in PDF)
 Download the brochure in
   English   Español

Products Containing Endangered Species
City law prohibits selling or buying products that use ingredients from endangered species.
 Download information in
   English   Español   中文