NYS Division of Building Standards and Codes – Albany, NY

NYS Division of Building Standards and Codes

State Regulatory Authority

The Division of Building Standards and Codes (DBSC), a unit of the New York State Department of State, is headquartered at One Commerce Plaza in downtown Albany. This agency serves as the central authority for the administration and enforcement of the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (Uniform Code) and the State Energy Conservation Construction Code. While local municipalities handle direct building permits and inspections, the DBSC provides the technical and legal framework that governs construction standards statewide (excluding New York City). The Division is essential for ensuring that buildings across the state are safe, sustainable, and resilient against hazards.

Technical Services and Training

The Division plays a critical role in supporting local code enforcement officials, architects, and engineers through several key programs:

• Technical Assistance: Staff engineers and architects provide code interpretations and technical guidance to local governments and professionals navigating complex construction regulations.
• Training and Certification: The Educational Services Unit develops and delivers mandatory training courses for certified Code Enforcement Officials and Building Safety Inspectors throughout the state.
• Regional Boards of Review: The Division provides administrative support to these boards, which hear petitions for variances when strict compliance with the Uniform Code causes practical difficulties.
• Code Development: The Division facilitates the periodic update of the state building codes to align with new technologies and the International Code Council (ICC) standards.
• Direct Enforcement: In municipalities that have “opted out” of local enforcement, the Division directly administers the building code and issues permits.

Location and Access

The DBSC offices are located on the 11th floor of 99 Washington Avenue (One Commerce Plaza), a major state office building located opposite the State Education Building and near the Capitol. As a secure state facility, the building requires visitors to check in at the security desk in the lobby with a valid government ID. Most interactions with this office—such as filing variance petitions or registering for training—are handled via mail, phone, or online portals rather than walk-in visits. The location is a hub for administrative oversight rather than a public service counter for general inquiries.