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Skilled Trades Project Requirements:
Emergency Backup Power Systems Work and Site Requirements

Emergency power installations require multiple permits. For emergency power systems, an electrical permit and a construction work permit are required. The electrical permit is issued to a NYC-Licensed Master Electrician (LME). A construction work permit is issued to a NYC General Contractor and the general construction permit is issued to a NYC-licensed General Contractor.

Only the above licensees, or the employees they supervise, may work on these systems. The Department issues licenses and registrations to individuals working with our Department and/or within the construction trades in New York City. LMEs must have a place of business in New York City – not a home office. See NYC Administrative Code Sections 28-408 and 28-410.

In addition to a General Contractor, a NYC-licensed Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) needs a license to alter work in 1, 2, 3 or 4 family homes or individual apartments in condominium/co-operative residences. HICs are licensed by the Department of Consumer Affairs.

Work Permit

Licensees must register to use the Department’s online permit processing E-Permit system. For an emergency power installation permit, the registered contractor must complete a permit application online. Prior to permitting the approved project, the following are required:

  • Payment of unpaid Project Application fees;
  • Identification of responsible Special Inspection Agencies;
  • Request to waive penalties, Stop Work Orders or violations, which were formerly achieved by the L2 Form procedure;
  • The Licensee must have an active and current license and all required insurance.

Work Site Safety Requirements

The Administrative Code of the City of New York Section 28- 301.1 requires Owners to maintain their properties in a safe condition. Property Owners, Contractors and Construction Site Managers must minimize the risk of accidents and fire.

Following Site Safety Regulations

Smoking on construction sites is illegal per NYC Building Code Section 3303.7.3 and NYC Fire Code 1404.1.

  • Tobacco, lighters and matches are prohibited on asbestos abatement sites; see Local Law 35/09.
  • Open fires are illegal on construction sites per NYC Fire Code 1404.3.
  • Approved portable fire extinguishers must be available on floors where combustible materials or liquids are stored, combustible waste is being generated and at the entrance of each storage and construction shed per NYC Fire Code 1415.1.
  • Temporary heating equipment used at construction sites must comply with NYC Fire Code 1403.
  • If the Fire Department issues a variance to use a coal-fired heater; the fire load on concrete construction projects must be minimized per NYC Building Code Section 3303.6 and NYC Fire Code 307.2.2.  To apply for a variance, contact FDNY’s Bureau of Fire Prevention at (718) 999 – 2377.
  • Store materials away from flames per NYC Fire Code 308.2.
  • When work involves the relocation or modification of Sprinklers, Standpipes, Fire Protection Systems, the Contractor of record must notify FDNY and obtain approval, if required, as per Sections BC 3303.7 and BC 3303.8.
  • Follow Tenant/Occupant Protection Plans. NYC BC 3303.10.

Constructing Safe Shanties

Build shanties or contractor sheds with fire-retardant or non-combustible materials and locate them in safe areas per NYC Building Code Section 3303.1.3.

Emergency Backup Power Systems

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