Site Safety Plan (SSP) Compliance in NYC:
A Guide for Building Owners

For building owners in New York City, site safety compliance can be a major source of stress. Keeping up with shifting regulations, paperwork, and DOB approvals means extra costs and project delays. Missing a single step can trigger violations or stop-work orders that put your investment at risk.

This guide explains what you need to know about Site Safety Plans (SSP) in NYC, so you can avoid costly mistakes and keep your project moving forward.

Site-Specific Safety Plan (SSSP) vs. Site Safety Plan (SSP): What’s the Difference?

Let’s cut through the jargon: SSSP and SSP aren’t the same, especially in New York City.

A Site-Specific Safety Plan (SSSP) comes from OSHA’s federal rules for construction (see 29 CFR 1926). A Site-Specific Safety Plan (SSSP) isn’t required for every job, but it’s typically mandatory for high-risk construction projects where unique hazards must be identified and controlled.

An SSSP spells out the basics: who’s responsible for safety, what hazards are present, how risks will be managed, PPE requirements, emergency contacts, and step-by-step protocols for keeping everyone safe. Think of it as a living safety manual tailored to the specifics of your project.

A Site Safety Plan (SSP), on the other hand, is a distinct legal requirement in New York City. Mandated by the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) under the NYC Building Code and local laws, an SSP is much more detailed and strictly enforced.

The SSP must cover everything from site logistics and worker protection to pedestrian safety, traffic management, work sequencing, and city-specific compliance measures. DOB Site Safety Plans are not optional. They’re required for major buildings, new construction, significant alterations, and any work involving public protection.

Here’s what trips up many contractors: In New York City, your federal-style SSSP does not check all the boxes. The DOB expects a full SSP that meets every city requirement.

What is a Site Safety Plan (SSP)?

A Site Safety Plan (SSP) is a detailed, site-specific document that the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) requires for many construction and demolition projects. The law is clear on this point: Article 110 of Title 28 states that every SSP must address the actual conditions at your project site. You cannot rely on generic templates or reuse plans from another job. If your SSP does not reflect your location’s specific risks and layout, it will not be approved.

In practice, an SSP is built around the unique hazards and daily realities of your project’s address. The DOB expects your plan to cover everything that could affect safety. This includes site access, logistics, safety measures, emergency procedures, compliance steps, and any factor that might put workers, visitors, or the public at risk.

It’s important not to confuse an SSP with a Tenant Protection Plan (TPP). A TPP focuses on keeping building occupants safe during construction. An SSP, on the other hand, is all about managing hazards and risks on an active construction site. It details how you will identify and control dangers that are present throughout the build.

The DOB requires SSPs for a wide range of projects, especially when working on large buildings or doing major structural work. The key rule is that your SSP must always be tailored to the specific job. For every project, you need current site drawings, emergency contact lists, up-to-date NYC Site Safety Training (SST) records, and clear procedures for each risk you identify.

When is a Site Safety Plan Required in NYC?

You won’t need a Site Safety Plan (SSP) for every job, but if you’re building in New York City, there’s a good chance you’ll need one as per NYC Building Code as well as Local Law 81 of 2017. Here are the instances wherein an SSP is required:

1. Major Buildings

Major buildings must have a site safety plan submitted to and approved by the NYC Department of Buildings. This includes:

• Constructing a new major building
• Vertical or horizontal enlargements of a major building
• Full or partial demolition of a major building
• Façade repair, maintenance, or alterations on a major building over 14 stories or 200 feet tall, if the work requires a sidewalk shed
• Any work on a building that the DOB Commissioner specifically designates due to unique site hazards

A “major building” in NYC is defined as:

• 7 or more stories
• At least 125 feet in height
• A footprint of 100,000 square feet or more, regardless of height
• Any building flagged by the DOB Commissioner due to special risks

When to Submit a Site Safety Plan to the DOB?

As of the July 15, 2022 update, site safety plans can be submitted to the DOB before the job is approved in DOB NOW: Build. You no longer need to wait for job approval to start the site safety plan review, and once your plan is submitted for the initial filing, you do not need to file a separate site safety plan for later filings on the same job.

2. Projects That Require a Registered Construction Superintendent

Local Law 81 of 2017 requires that any job needing a Registered Construction Superintendent must also have an SSP on site, even if you don’t need to submit it to the DOB for pre-approval. Covered work includes:

• New buildings
• Full demolitions
• Alterations involving:
  • Vertical or horizontal enlargements
  • Demolition of more than 50% of the gross floor area within any 12 months
  • Removal of one or more floors within any 12 months
  • Special inspections for underpinning or protecting excavation sides
• Any project that the Commissioner deems an enhanced risk to the public or property

Exception: If you’re working on a 1-, 2-, or 3-family home, and the project only involves accessory uses, you typically do not need an SSP. You also don’t need to prepare this document if the contractor is registered and the site is not classified as a major building.

3. Smaller Jobs and Special Cases

Even some smaller projects may trigger SSP requirements. This could include brownstone additions, renovations near occupied buildings, work that involves sidewalk sheds, cranes, or jobs next to public sidewalks. If there’s any risk to the public, adjacent property, or workers, the DOB can require a site-specific plan for your job, no matter the size.

4. Schools and Public Projects

Projects involving the School Construction Authority (SCA) and most public works almost always require an SSP. The increased risk to students and the public makes these plans mandatory.

What is Included in a Site Safety Plan (SSP)?

Every Site Safety Plan (SSP) submitted to the NYC Department of Buildings must meet strict content standards set by the Building Code and city regulations. Plans are reviewed for completeness, accuracy, and site-specific detail. Here’s exactly what must be included, based on the latest DOB industry notice:

1. General Site Information

• Jobsite address
• Main work application number
• North arrow for orientation
• Streets and sidewalks, with widths and traffic direction clearly shown
• Locations of curb cuts, vehicle entrances/exits, and motor vehicle ramps
• Above-ground utilities and infrastructure (street lights, bus shelters, electrical/phone lines, subway entrances, etc.)
• Existing trees and other natural obstructions
• All buildings and structures within the site, with occupancy, height, dimensions, projections, setbacks, entrances/exits, and any roof equipment shown

2. Pedestrian Protection

• Location and layout of all construction fences, including each fence panel
• Location and type of all gates (sliding or inward swinging)
• All street and sidewalk closings
• Sidewalk sheds, with shed signage indicated
• Temporary walkways and required overhead protection
• Foot bridges
• Pedestrian and traffic control measures, such as locations for flag persons

3. Adjoining Property Protection

• Adjoining buildings within 20 feet of property lines, including their occupancy, height, dimensions, projections, setbacks, and roof equipment
• Type and location of roof protection for adjacent properties
• Type and location of yard protection for adjoining properties, including controlled access zones

4. Unenclosed Perimeter Protection

• Type and location of unenclosed perimeter protections (nets, cocoon systems, catchalls)
• Installation details and designated lifting areas where perimeter protection may be omitted

5. Excavations

• Location of all excavations
• Guardrails and protection measures for sides of excavations or underpinning
• Means of egress from excavations, such as soil or rock ramps

6. Fire Protection

• Location of water supply for firefighting (hydrants)
• All fire extinguishers, with types indicated
• Standpipe systems and fire department hose connections
• Red lights marking standpipe and hose outlet connections
• Standpipe alarm system details (pressure gauge, release, air compressor)
• Hoists/elevators for fire department use
• Storage areas for flammable liquids and gases

7. Construction Equipment and Temporary Construction

• Locations of heavy power-operated equipment (cranes, derricks, hoists, mast climbers, excavators, drill rigs, etc.)
• Load paths and zones for cranes and derricks, including cantilever loading platforms
• Material and personnel hoist loading areas
• Planned exterior scaffold drops (both suspended and supported), and areas for landing/anchoring scaffolds
• Locations of chutes
• Protection for internal floor openings (shafts, stairways, leave outs)
• Locations of all contractor sheds, offices, and portable sanitation units

8. Means of Egress

• Permanent and temporary means of egress from the site, including stairs, ramps, landings, handrails, and guardrails

9. Operational Information

• Security and control measures for access zones (on site and at adjoining properties)
• Debris and material storage areas or loading zones (within site, at perimeter, in sidewalk/lane closures)
• Special sequencing required for safety, with a written description
• Material handling plan for crane operations, especially if conflicting with hoist operations
• In occupied buildings, methods for protecting tenants from construction impact
• For façade work: means and methods for moving materials and debris, and for worker access to scaffolds and sheds

10. Personnel Information

• Location of all security guard and watchperson stations
• Note stating all workers must complete required safety training under section 3310.10.2 of the Building Code
• Note stating all workers must receive a site-specific orientation as required by section 3310.10.1

Every SSP must be site-specific and include up-to-date details for your exact project location. Generic plans or missing items will delay DOB approval.

How to Submit a Site Safety Plan

Before work can start on a project that requires a Site Safety Plan (SSP), you need to file your plan with the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB). The submission process depends on whether your job is managed through the city’s legacy BIS system or the newer DOB NOW: Build platform. Each method has its own steps and file requirements, so be sure to follow the correct process for your project.

For BIS Jobs (Legacy System)

• How to submit: Email your Site Safety Plan (SSP) to the Construction Safety Compliance (CSC) Plan Examination Unit at cscplanexam@buildings.nyc.gov.
• File requirements: Submit your application as a zipped PDF file no larger than 15 MB.
• File naming format: Name your zip file as follows: YYYY-MM-DD-Building Number-Street Name-Job Number
  Example: 2025-07-24-123-Main Street-987654321.zip
• Email subject line: Use the same format as your file name: Building Number-Street Name-Job Number.
• Attachments: Always include a Digital Cover Sheet as a separate file.
• Package types: Submit either a Complete Site Safety Package (covers the full project) or a Phased Site Safety Package (submit in parts as the project progresses).

For DOB NOW: Build Jobs (Online System)

• How to submit:
  1. Log in to your Job Filings Dashboard in DOB NOW: Build.
  2. Click the +Requests button and select Site Safety.
  3. Choose Site Safety Plans (or select a Site Safety Waiver if you qualify).
• When to submit: As of July 15, 2022, you can submit your SSP before the job is fully approved. You do not need to wait for DOB approval to start the review process. Once you submit your job, a DOB plan examiner will check criteria like building height, number of stories, footprint, and any special work requirements. When those criteria are approved, you will see a banner in DOB NOW and get an email notification. This is your cue to upload your SSP.
• For subsequent filings: You only need to submit the SSP once for each job. Separate site safety plan submissions are not required for later filings on the same project.

After Submission

• The DOB reviews your SSP for compliance.
• If you need to make revisions, follow DOB instructions to update and resubmit your plan.

Site Safety Release and Sidewalk Shed Removal

• To release site safety requirements or request the removal of sidewalk sheds: Go to +Requests in DOB NOW, select Site Safety Release and Sidewalk Shed Removal, and follow the prompts.
• For removal of required site safety personnel (such as Construction Superintendent, Site Safety Coordinator, or Manager) after project completion, submit a release request with all needed documentation. Approval is granted after the DOB inspection is passed.

Common Site Safety Plan Compliance Issues in NYC

Even experienced teams run into issues when submitting a site safety plan to the NYC DOB. Most delays stem from preventable mistakes, such as:

• Missing, or unlabeled site drawings
• Vague or incomplete logistics (e.g., no fencing, no pedestrian protection)
• Failing to respond to DOB correction notices
• Ignoring required updates after changes in site scope or staffing
• Submitting vague logistics or missing safety protocols
• Plans missing dimensions, egress paths, fence locations, crane zones, or worker access routes
• Sidewalk sheds, fences, and netting not shown or non-compliant with code
• Missing fire extinguisher locations, access routes for emergency personnel, or fire guard posts
• Failing to show protection measures for neighboring buildings or sidewalks
• Signage not shown for site entries, hoist areas, safety warnings, or temporary facilities
• Fence not properly shown, gates open onto public right-of-way, or not self-closing
• Cranes, hoists, scaffolds, or concrete pump operations not detailed

Even something as minor as a wrong project address or a formatting issue can trigger a round of DOB corrections.

How to Avoid NYC Site Safety Plan Mistakes?

To improve your chances of fast DOB approval, it’s important to catch avoidable errors before you submit. Below are a few best practices that can help you avoid common SSP mistakes:

• Use the official DOB site safety plan checklist NYC provides before uploading any files
• Keep a secure, organized folder of all active permits, drawings, and SST card proof
• Confirm that all documents are current, legible, and labeled clearly
• Make sure every part of your logistics plan shows critical safety elements like barriers, sidewalk sheds, and material staging
• Build a compliance calendar to remind your team to perform SSP reviews after any project change
• Review your submission with a fresh set of eyes. Someone not involved in drafting the plan can often spot small gaps you’ve missed. You can consider assigning a compliance lead or working with a professional site safety consultant.
• Organize your PDFs using descriptive file names (e.g., “Site_Drawing_EntranceLayout.pdf” instead of “Drawing1.pdf”)

Keep your original files easily accessible in case DOB reviewers ask for changes. It’s also smart to maintain a master folder for your entire SSP package so you can update or resubmit quickly if needed.

NYC DOB Enforcement and Penalties for SSP Non-Compliance

Failing to comply with the DOB site safety plan NYC requirements can cause a number of project setbacks. The NYC Department of Buildings strictly enforces these rules across all five boroughs, and even minor lapses can result in consequences such as:

• On-the-spot violations for missing, outdated, or incomplete documentation
• Stop-work orders that can freeze all activity until every compliance issue is resolved
• Fines and escalating penalties

How to Choose a Qualified Site Safety Consultant in NYC?

Hiring the right site safety consultant can be the difference between a smooth DOB approval and weeks of costly delays. NYC construction safety regulations are detailed and constantly updated. A licensed, experienced consultant helps you stay compliant, avoid rejections, and keep your project moving.

1. NYC DOB Licensing

Always verify that your consultant is licensed and approved by the NYC Department of Buildings. This ensures they’re qualified to prepare and submit site safety plans and can represent your project during inspections. Licensing also confirms they understand current DOB codes and submission protocols.

2. Proven Experience with NYC Projects

Choose someone with a track record of successful, on-time SSP approvals, especially for projects similar to yours. A consultant familiar with local construction types, DOB workflows, and red flags will spot issues early and solve problems before they become rejections.

Ask to see real examples of their work or request client testimonials. Reliable consultants will have no problem sharing references.

3. Responsiveness and Communication

DOB reviewers often request corrections or updates with tight deadlines. You need a consultant who responds quickly, keeps you in the loop, and delivers updates without delays.

Whether it’s paperwork revisions or direct communication with inspectors, responsiveness reduces project risk and keeps your timeline intact.

Benefits of Professional Site Safety Management in NYC

Managing site safety in New York City involves more than filling out forms. Between logistics plans, DOB submission rules, SST training records, and ongoing inspections, it’s easy to miss a detail that could hold up your project. That’s where professional site safety consultants come in.

Here’s what they bring to the table:

• Save Time and Stay Focused: Your consultant handles every part of your DOB site safety plan, from creating logistics drawings to compiling SST card NYC documentation and uploading everything to DOB NOW. This lets your team concentrate on running the job site instead of chasing paperwork.
• Minimize Errors and Rejections: Experienced consultants know exactly what the DOB looks for. They’ll catch issues early, ensure drawings are labeled correctly, and make sure every requirement is met before submission. This reduces the risk of DOB corrections, resubmissions, or costly delays.
• Improve Compliance and Reduce Risk: With professional oversight, your site-specific safety plan will stay current throughout the project. If the scope changes or inspectors request updates, your consultant can revise and resubmit without disrupting your timeline.
• Ongoing Support Through the Project Lifecycle: Great consultants don’t disappear after the first submission. They provide continuous compliance management, tracking deadlines, updating documents, and supporting your team during DOB audits or inspections.

Spotlight: NY Super Safety

At NY Super Safety, our team specializes in on-site construction safety management and compliance for projects throughout all five boroughs of New York City—Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island.

1. Site Safety Management

We provide licensed Site Safety Managers, Coordinators, Competent Persons, Construction Superintendents, Concrete Safety Managers, and Fire Safety Managers for every job as part of our site safety management services. Our team maintains a daily on-site presence, conducts thorough inspections, monitors all permits and licenses, and signs DOB logbooks to ensure your compliance from start to finish.

2. Engineering & Planning

We handle all safety documentation required for DOB site safety plan NYC submissions as part of our engineering and planning services, including:

• Site Safety Plans (SSP)
• Tenant Protection Plans (TPP)
• Scaffold and sidewalk shed plans
• DOT logistics and fence plans

3. Project Oversight & Audits

Our project oversight includes specialized monitoring such as vibration, crack, and optical monitoring. We also perform preconstruction surveys and special inspections, so you can be confident your site remains safe and compliant at every stage.

Why Choose NY Super Safety?

• NYC-Focused Expertise: Our team’s experience navigating Chapter 33 DOB compliance requirements makes us a trusted resource for New York City construction projects of any size.
• Professional Staffing: NY Super Safety provides Site Safety Managers, Site Safety Coordinators, Fire Safety Managers, Concrete Safety Managers, Competent Persons, Construction Superintendents. We strictly limit our superintendents to fewer than three active jobs per license, meeting DOB regulations and ensuring every client receives the attention and expertise they deserve.
• Communication & Responsiveness: We pride ourselves on fast corrective action and transparent, timely updates, so you’re always informed and can make confident decisions.

From initial planning to ongoing project management and compliance, NY Super Safety delivers the local expertise, dedication, and responsive service you need to keep your project moving forward.

Official NYC DOB Resources

For the most accurate, up-to-date information on NYC construction compliance, always refer to official Department of Buildings (DOB) resources. These sites and documents outline current rules, forms, and step-by-step guidance for your DOB site safety plan in NYC.

• NYC DOB Construction Safety: Summarizes site safety plan requirements, reviews, inspections, and enforcement for construction and demolition operations, as guided by Chapter 33 of the NYC Construction Codes and ongoing DOB safety programs.
• NYC DOB Site Safety Program: Central resource for rules, application details, submission processes, checklists, and FAQs related to SSPs, including contacts for CSC plan examination and service notices.
• DOB NOW: Build Portal: Platform for online job filings, site safety plan submissions, application tracking, and digital approval confirmations. Requires an NYC.ID account for access.

Legal Codes and Laws

• NYC Administrative Code Title 28, Article 110: Lays out the legal requirements for site safety plans, including site-specific documentation, plan contents, and compliance standards.
• NYC Building Code Chapter 33: Details all public and property safeguards for construction/demolition operations, outlining when an SSP is required and the standards for plan details.
• NYC Administrative Code §28-105.12.8: Specifies approval requirements for site safety plans, connecting filing and permit rules directly to SSP compliance.
• Local Law 196 of 2017: Mandates Site Safety Training (SST) for workers and supervisors, SST documentation as part of SSP compliance, and penalties for failure to comply.

Official Compliance and Submission Guidance

• Public Portal User Manual for DOB NOW: Provides guidance for navigating DOB NOW functions, uploading documentation, and checking job/inspection status.
• NYC.ID Single Sign-On Guide: Explains step-by-step registration and access instructions for DOB NOW and related city services via the NYC.ID account system.
• NYC DOB Enforcement Bulletins: Monthly or quarterly bulletins summarizing trends, fines, and enforcement actions for SSP, permit, and site safety violations citywide.

FAQs:

What is the difference between a Site Safety Plan (SSP) and a Site-Specific Safety Plan (SSSP) in NYC?

In NYC, a Site-Specific Safety Plan (SSSP) is a detailed plan tailored to a project's unique hazards and tasks. It’s typically mandatory for high-risk construction projects, but not directly required by the DOB. A Site Safety Plan (SSP) is a DOB-mandated document for Major Buildings or sites requiring a construction superintendent.

Does the DOB require every SSP to meet Article 110 of Title 28?

Yes, all NYC site safety plans must comply with Article 110 of Title 28, which details site-specific requirements for construction safety, emergency procedures, and documentation.

When is a Site Safety Plan Required in NYC?

A Site Safety Plan is required for major construction or demolition projects in New York City, especially those involving large buildings, public safety risks, or work near occupied areas. You’ll need an SSP if your project is large in scale, requires a Registered Construction Superintendent, involves public infrastructure, or is flagged by the DOB for special hazards. Most small residential projects are exempt unless classified as major buildings. When in doubt, check with the NYC Department of Buildings.

What exactly is included in a Site Safety Plan in NYC?

A NYC DOB site safety plan includes everything the Department of Buildings needs to verify your site is safe and compliant. This includes general site information, pedestrian protection, adjoining property protection, unenclosed perimeter protection, location of all hoists/elevators for fire department use, operational information, etc. All information must be accurate, up-to-date, and clearly labeled.

Who is responsible for preparing a Site Safety Plan in New York City?

In New York City, the responsibility for preparing a Site Safety Plan (SSP) falls on a Registered Design Professional (RDP)—specifically a Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA).

What steps must I follow to submit my Site Safety Plan to NYC DOB?

You must log in to the DOB NOW site safety plan portal, upload your completed SSP as a PDF, fill out the required forms, and monitor your dashboard for review status or correction requests. Ensure your submission includes all required documentation and follows the DOB site safety plan formatting guidelines.

What penalties can I face if I fail to comply with NYC SSP regulations?

The DOB may issue violations, stop-work orders, or fines.

Do I need a site-specific safety plan for every project in NYC?

A Site-Specific Safety Plan (SSSP) isn’t required for every job, but it’s typically mandatory for high-risk construction projects where unique hazards must be identified and controlled.

How often should I update my construction site safety plan?

Update your SSP whenever there's a change in project scope, staffing, logistics, or DOB feedback. You should also update it after any significant safety incident or site inspection. Keeping it current is part of maintaining the site safety plan compliance requirements.

What is the role of SST training in site safety plan compliance?

Site safety training (SST) in NYC is mandatory for workers and supervisors on many construction sites. Your SSP must include a note indicating that all workers employed on the construction site must receive a site-specific orientation program as required by section 3310.10.1 of the New York City Building Code. DOB inspectors may request to see SST cards during reviews or inspections.

I NEED A SUPERINTENDENT I NEED A COORDINATOR I NEED A MANAGER