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For Immediate Release: July 3, 2024
CONTACT: dobcommunications@buildings.nyc.gov, (212) 393-2126

DOB URGES NEW YORKERS TO MAKE SMART DECISIONS THIS FOURTH OF JULY HOLIDAY

Unauthorized Use of Building Rooftops to Get a Better View of Tomorrow’s Fireworks Could Lead to Deadly Consequences

New York, NY – The New York City Department of Buildings today is reminding all property owners and residents to be mindful of existing safety regulations for the proper use of rooftops, terraces, balconies, and fire escapes during the Independence Day holiday, and to make intelligent decisions about their own safety and the safety of their families. Ignoring building safety regulations to get a better view of holiday fireworks displays, like climbing up to a rooftop that is not meant to occupied, can lead to serious injury or worse. Large gatherings and parties in these spaces can create an even more hazardous situation due to overcrowding near rooftop ledges. All too often, first responders are called to the scene of fatal building falls throughout the five boroughs, which came as the result of unlawful gatherings on fire escapes and rooftops that are not specifically designed for this type of occupancy. Regulations for these open-air spaces apply all year long, and falls can happy during any season, but are particularly relevant this month as New Yorkers look for vantage points to view the Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks display, which is scheduled to take place over the Hudson River this Thursday evening.

“Watching the Fourth of July fireworks display is an important New York City tradition, and we understand that it may be tempting to access your building’s rooftop to get a better view of the festivities,” said Department of Buildings Commissioner Jimmy Oddo. “But the fact is, it is simply not safe to have large groups gather on unsecured building rooftops or fire escapes, where one false step can result in life-altering consequences. For those planning to enjoy the firework show, make smart decisions and select an appropriate place to watch, such as a building with a legal rooftop terrace, a rooftop bar, or possibly the best view in the city - safely in front of your TV.”

Property owners and building residents should closely follow the following safety rules to avoid serious injury during the Fourth of July fireworks display:

Do not access building rooftops to watch the fireworks, unless the rooftop has an approved deck or other approved space for gatherings, equipped with code-compliant guardrails, multiple emergency exits, signage indicating the maximum legal occupancy, and other safety features.

Do not gather to watch the fireworks on fire escapes, which are not designed nor meant to be used as a balcony. For the safety of everyone in the building, fire escapes must be kept free of obstructions at all times.

Do not overcrowd terraces, balconies, or legal rooftop spaces. Overcrowding these spaces can pose a serious hazard to occupants.

Do not prop open emergency doors or disable door alarms leading to rooftop areas of a building that are not meant to be legally occupied. Unsecured rooftop spaces can pose a serious danger to building occupants, especially children.

Do not lean out of a window, over an edge, a parapet wall or over a railing for a better view of the fireworks display.

Avoid approaching any building edge that is not protected by a wall or railing.

Property owners have a legal obligation to maintain their properties in a safe and code-compliant condition at all times. New Yorkers are encouraged to call 311 to report unsafe building conditions to the Department, and call 911 to report emergencies.